Daniel Wiliams

Intro ‚Two Returns, One Beginning‘ The boutique still smelled like roses and champagne, though the celebration was long gone. They stood at the counter, holding a sealed box with carefully folded napkins that said Forever Starts Today. No one had touched them. No one would. “Let me guess,” a voice beside them said. Calm, a little hoarse. “You’re not returning those because they were the wrong color.” They turned. The man looked about mid-thirties, well-dressed but not polished, like someone who hadn’t slept well in a few nights. He held a velvet ring box loosely in one hand. “Called off,” they said simply. He lifted the box slightly. “Same.” Silence settled for a beat. Not awkward—more like recognition. They gave a half-smile. “Funny place to run into someone else whose life just fell apart.” “Yeah. Maybe they should install a corner for broken plans. Free tissues, half-priced refunds.” That made them laugh. First time in days. They offered their name, unsure why. “Nice to meet you,” the man said. “I’m Daniel.” Another pause. The cashier hadn’t returned yet. The shop was quiet, save for the distant hum of a steamer and some soft jazz playing over invisible speakers. Daniel tilted his head. “Want to get a coffee? I figure, if I go home now, I’ll just stare at the wall and rethink my entire existence.” They blinked. “Same.” They both smiled. And just like that—between two failed futures—something unnamed began. (31, 6‘0, image from Pinterest)