Inside the pillow, nestled amidst the worn-down stuffing, was a small wooden box. My heart raced as I carefully pulled it out, my fingers trembling. The box was intricately carved, its surface adorned with delicate flowers and swirling vines. It was a stark contrast to the faded pillowcase that had concealed it for so long. I sat there, staring at it, questions tumbling through my mind. What was this doing here? Why hadn’t I ever noticed it before?
With a deep breath, I opened the box, and as I did, a faint scent of cedar wafted into the air. Inside, I found a collection of faded photographs and handwritten letters, tied together with a crimson ribbon. I carefully untied the ribbon and picked up the top photograph. It was a picture of Héctor and me on our wedding day. We were smiling, surrounded by friends and family, the future bright before us. I traced the edges of the photo with my finger, recalling the hope and excitement I had felt back then.
