Chapter 13: "Uncertain Thoughts and final decision"

As she parted with Mrs. Jennifer , Emily walked back to her house, lost in thought:

* The porch light flickers on as she approaches.

* Grandma looks up from reading, concerns etched on her face – "Emily, dear, what's wrong? You look troubled."

Emily sighs, dropping her bag – "Max's family situation... complicated doesn't even begin to describe it, Grandma."

Emily asked Grandma's advice – "What would you do, Grandma – if you were in Max's shoes?"

Grandma closed her book, eyes filled with empathy – "Come sit with me, dear. This requires thoughtful discussion."

Emily sat beside Grandma on the couch, hands clasped together –

Grandma began –

"If I were Max, I'd consider family bonds and obligations... but also my own heart's desires. What does Max want deep down?"

Emily thought before responding – "He wants to help his uncle, but also wants us – our relationship and all of us. He's torn between family duty and love."

Grandma nodded wisely – "Exactly. Now, imagine you're Max – what would you advise him to choose: family obligation or following his heart with all of us?"

Emily chose family – "I'd advise Max to prioritize family – help his uncle – and hope his love for all of us survives distance."

Grandma nodded understandingly – "That's a selfless choice, dear. Putting Max's family first could strengthen his bond with his uncle and heritage."

Emily looked down, voice barely above whisper – "But what if distance ruins us, Grandma? What if Max and I drift apart while he's caring for his uncle?"

Grandma gently placed a hand on Emily's –

"Love like yours can withstand separation if both hearts remain committed. Max would need to know you're waiting, trusting him..."

Grandma paused, then added – "Do you trust Max enough to wait for you, Emily?"

Emily looked up at Grandma, her eyes searching for reassurance. She thought about Max and their relationship, about the way he made her feel and the promises they had made to each other.

"Yes, Grandma," Emily said finally, her voice firm. "I trust Max. I know he loves me, and I love him. We'll make it work, no matter what."

Grandma smiled, her eyes shining with warmth. "That's my brave girl," she said. "Trust and love can conquer distance and time. Just remember to communicate with Max, to tell him how you're feeling and what you're thinking. And don't be afraid to show him your love and support, even from afar."

Emily nodded, feeling a sense of determination washed over her. She knew that the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but she was ready to face it head-on, as long as Max was by her side.

Just then, Emily's phone buzzed – Max's name on the screen – she told grandma that is tried and going to her room. After going to her room she answered the call nervously – "Hey Max... What's going on?"

Max's voice was laced with emotion – "Emily... I've made my decision. I'm going to London with my uncle."

Emily's heart sank like a stone - He interrupted gently – "I don't know if I have made the right decision or not. But after talking to you and my uncle again... I think I should go he needs me more now than anyone. He needs me desperately."

Tears pricked Emily's eyes - Max paused, collecting his thoughts – " Emily, You mean everything to me. But I must do this for my family... and hope you'll wait for me."

Emily accepted his decision with a heavy heart –

"I'll wait for you, Max and you have taken absolutely the right decision but promise regular updates and virtual dates. Make me feel close despite the distance."

Max exhaling softly in relief – "Always, Emily. Daily video calls, messages throughout the day... my love for you won't fade with miles."

Emily smiled weakly through tears – "Keep your promises, Max... and come back to me whole – uncle cared for, heart still mine."

Max vowed – "On my love for you, Emily – I'll return with stories of my uncle's smile and my heart still belonging to you."

The call ended. Emily collapsed onto her bed, tears soaking her pillow.

Her phone buzzed again – Max sent a text:

"Booking flight tomorrow. Will call before I leave London airport. Sleep tight, my love." Emily decided to wait till morning -"Need sleep to process emotion - will respond before his flight tomorrow."

But sleep evaded her - thoughts of Max leaving swirled endlessly.

She tossed and turned, watching hours tick by on her clock: 2:47 AM... 3:14 AM... 4:01 AM...

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