The wind rustled through the tree leaves, whispering stories of ages past as if the tree itself carried the weight of time. Brody’s black car came to a halt under the moonlit night.

Molly didn't move immediately. She turned her head to look at Brody, then reached over and handed him a delicate, expensive box. Her voice was barely audible as she whispered, “I’m sorry.”

Inside the box, nestled like a secret, was a white gem bracelet. It was clear from its craftsmanship that it was an heirloom from Brody’s family, a precious and irreplaceable treasure.

Molly knew it was far too valuable for her to accept; she couldn’t and wouldn’t take something so precious.

The interior of the car was dim, the only light coming from the faint glow outside. Brody’s eyes, which were dark as the night around them, gazed at her without a word.

Brody's hand remained on the steering wheel, but his fingers caressed it gently as if he were touching the heart of someone he loved. He studied her fragile, i