Ashen Requiem

Today, I decided it would be the most beautiful day in the world.

I woke up with the sun cracked open in the sky like a golden yolk spilled on silk. It was warm beneath the blanket.

The air smelled like eggs, butter, and Milo’s morning grumble echoing from the kitchen.

I like when he grumbles—it means he’s here.

— "Up and at ’em, sleepy marmot!"

Always the same line. I smiled into my pillow. My stuffed toy pressed close to my chest.

I slipped into my white dress—the one Milo calls "the dress for days that matter."

I brushed my hair the way he taught me. Even if it tugged a little. I looked into the mirror and whispered :

— "Today, I’ll make you proud, Milo."

At breakfast, I ate everything. The chocolate, the eggs—even the burnt edge.

He pretended to grumble, but I know he was happy.