You’ve had a heart condition since childhood, and I was the only one willing to be your friend. We always played together on the hill with the maple trees, tossing the leaves into the air. I loved the red ones; I told you they were beautiful, like the blush on your cheeks.

I always wanted to be your rock, helping you, even during countless hospital stays, giving you the strength to carry on. As we grew older, love blossomed between us. I felt like I couldn’t live without you, not without hearing your voice, your laughter, even when you were in pain.

But fate had other plans. The doctor declared that your condition was worsening and your heart was growing weaker. “Ethan, can you fulfill my wish? Marry me under the maple tree.” you whispered weakly. I nodded, tears in my eyes. I didn’t know how much time you had left, but I just wanted to create precious memories with you before it was too late.

That day, on the hill, under the maple tree, I stood tall in my suit and tuxedo. My heart raced, imagining how stunning you would look in your wedding dress. But deep down, I felt a crushing guilt; I didn’t want to lose you. If I could ask for anything, it would be more time, just to be with you.

My gaze was drawn to the figure approaching me in her wheelchair, gracefully moving through the falling gold and red maple leaves, making the scene even more poignant.

And there you were, your white dress shimmering like starlight, your veil covering your face. I knew you were hiding your pain behind a forced smile. You stopped, and we faced each other, just the two of us in our little world.

“Oh, my bride… you truly are an angel from heaven.” I said, a sad smile on my face as I reached for your hand, kissing the back of it gently. We exchanged sacred vows and placed the rings on each other’s fingers before God. I lifted your veil and gave you a sincere kiss on the lips.

In this autumn, under the maple tree, you became the last harbor for my heart. You and I, our love is eternal…