The Journey That Changed Everything
Hi, I’m Cathy. I’m in my late 30s, with no kids, and my husband is nowhere to be found. Yes, you heard that right—I was married for three wonderful years, but then, due to an unexpected and fateful event, my beloved husband, Drake Aragon, disappTeared. To this day, I don’t know if he’s alive or not.
Three years ago, I met Drake at the airport—not as a passenger, but as a captain himself in international aviation. He was incredibly handsome, with a strong physique and exceptional manners. Despite his privileged upbringing, he was humble, respectful, and could easily connect with people from all walks of life.
One rainy day, my friend Lina and I needed to attend a convention in the city. Living in the province, it would have taken us 12 hours to get there by bus. To avoid exhaustion, we decided to take a plane for the first time in our lives. We were true provincial girls—everything about the city and its pace was completely new to us.
At the time, I was in my early 30s and working as a kindergarten teacher. My family wasn’t well off, but I was passionate about staying in the province to teach and nurture young children, hoping they would grow up to lead successful lives.
It was 9:00 PM, and I was waiting for Lina, my childhood best friend, who had a knack for being late. That evening was no different—when I called her earlier, her voice was filled with surprise, and I could tell she hadn’t even started preparing. Nevertheless, she eventually arrived, and we headed straight to check-in.
As we waited for our flight, a group of flight attendants passed by, led by their captain. “Cathy, look!” Lina exclaimed, pointing excitedly. “That captain is so handsome!” I could barely see him because I’d taken off my eyeglasses, exhausted from the day. Rolling my eyes, I teased Lina, thinking she was exaggerating as usual.
Lina, the bubbly and kind single mom of a 5-year-old boy, was always on the lookout for her “dream city man.” Having been left by her boyfriend after discovering she was pregnant, she faced life head-on with humor and determination. Despite her quirks, I loved her dearly.
An Unexpected Win
During the flight, the stewardess announced a game—whoever guessed the correct number would win a three-day hotel stay with a companion. Lina was ecstatic, though I wasn’t particularly interested. I rarely won anything, so I gave my number to Lina, saying she could take her son if it turned out to be the lucky one.
To my shock, my number was called! Lina cried in disbelief, and while others cheered, I quietly decided to give her the prize. After all, she deserved it more than I did.
Meeting Captain Drake
When we arrived at the city airport, we were picking up our luggage when I heard a calm, unfamiliar voice behind me. “Hi, ma’am. I’m Captain Drake Aragon. Congratulations on your win.”
Startled, I turned toward him. Without my glasses, I could barely make out his features, but I managed a polite smile. “Thank you, Captain.” Beside me, Lina beamed at him like a child meeting her favorite celebrity.
He explained that the prize included food and accommodations at a hotel and wished us an enjoyable stay. As he turned to leave, I heard him ask for my number. Lina hesitated but ended up giving it to him.
“S-Sorry, sir, but we’ll contact you when we decide to use the prize,” I said quickly, tugging Lina along.
The City Adventure
During the convention, I received a message from an unknown number—it was Captain Drake. Feeling unwell, I handed my phone to Lina and jokingly said, “Maybe he’s your destiny,” before drifting off to sleep. Lina gleefully took over the conversation.
The following day, Lina dragged me to a prestigious mall. It was my first time seeing something so luxurious, and Lina, ever adventurous, led us to a fancy restaurant. “It’s free because you won!” she exclaimed. Hesitantly, I followed her, and we indulged in the buffet.
While we ate, I noticed someone familiar approaching—Captain Drake. He joined us at our table, chatting comfortably. Despite his kind demeanor, I couldn’t help but feel small in his presence. He was wealthy, while I was just a simple teacher making $400 a month. After dinner, Lina convinced me to go to a disco bar, but I quickly felt out of place and left. To my surprise, Drake followed.
“I noticed you seemed uncomfortable,” he said. “I just wanted to check on you.”
Annoyed, I responded bluntly, “Please, sir, have mercy and find someone else. I’m poor, unattractive, and not interested in a relationship.” Without letting him speak, I walked away, leaving him behind.
A New Mystery Man
A month later, Lina mentioned that the local mayor had found a generous donor interested in supporting the town’s education and livelihood projects. The donor was scheduled to visit in a week, sparking excitement in our small community.
While I was busy in the kitchen preparing food for the event, the women outside began to chatter and giggle. “He’s so handsome!” one of them exclaimed, and I assumed they were talking about the donor. I paid no attention until I heard a familiar voice at the door.
“Hi, Cathy. Nice to see you again.”
Startled, I turned to find Captain Drake standing there, looking as charming as ever. The women giggled, chasing him playfully, while I stood frozen, unsure if he was the special guest we had been eagerly awaiting.
Chapter 5: A Kindness Revealed
During the town’s welcome event for the donor, Cathy was busy handing out food to the children when a familiar voice caught her attention.
“Thank you, ma’am,” a man said as Cathy handed him food. “You’re welcome, sir,” she replied, without realizing who he was.
Suddenly, a wave of giggles erupted among the other women. “Captain, thank you for the donation! You’ve helped so many less fortunate kids,” Martha, an older widow, exclaimed with admiration. “You’re so handsome and kind—seeing you makes me want to get married soon!” The crowd roared with laughter.
Cathy turned to Captain Drake, who smiled graciously at the women before his gaze shifted back to her. “Captain, thank you for your kindness,” Cathy said sincerely. “I never thought you’d visit our secluded area, and we’re truly grateful for your willingness to help us poor people.”
Drake paused and replied thoughtfully, “Oh, Cathy, do you know the real reason I’m here?”
“Well, because of your good deeds,” she answered.
“No, no! That’s not it,” Drake said with a laugh. “My grandfather has been urging me to marry soon. I’m 38 years old now, and as the only son in my family, the continuation of our lineage rests with me. I introduced a city girl to my family five years ago, but they declined. Do you know why? They believe a simple, mature woman who doesn’t find happiness in wealth but in doing good for others is the right person for me.”
Cathy’s eyes widened as Drake continued. “When I asked Lina about your town, she mentioned you, Cathy. I was curious, so I did my own investigation. I learned you’re one of the kindest, most diligent teachers here. Despite having opportunities to work in the city, you chose to stay and help poor children get an education. My grandfather admires that attitude greatly. That’s why he asked me to donate money to this place—and that’s why I’m here.”
Cathy was moved but composed herself, saying, “Please pass along our heartfelt gratitude to your grandfather, Captain. By the way, you mentioned marriage earlier, right? So, does this mean your grandfather will accept anyone from this town as long as she fits his criteria?”
Chapter 6: A Proposal and a Decision
Cathy’s heart sank as Drake revealed his intentions. “Cathy, I’m here to propose to you,” Drake said earnestly. “I know you’re in your 30s, just like me. If you marry me, my grandfather will transfer his inheritance to me—as long as we can have a child together.”
Cathy stared at him in disbelief. “No! I don’t like you, duh! I’m not marrying someone just because of my age or because they offered me a deal. If you’re looking for a wife, marry someone else in this town!”
She stormed off, leaving Drake speechless. As she walked away, she overheard Martha teasing, “If Cathy doesn’t want you, it’s okay—I’ll marry you tomorrow!” The women burst into laughter, but Drake simply shook his head and returned to his hotel.
Chapter 7: Lina’s Secret
Later that night, Drake received a frantic message from Lina: “Please help me—I need to go to the hospital.”
Rushing to Lina’s house, he found Cathy anxiously pacing. “What happened?” Drake asked. “I don’t know,” Cathy replied, her voice trembling. “She suddenly felt pain in her stomach.”
At the hospital, the doctor delivered heartbreaking news: Lina had suffered another miscarriage. Cathy was stunned when Lina confessed the truth.
“I met a man in the city,” Lina admitted tearfully. “I thought he was single, but I just found out he’s married—and his wife is about to give birth this month. I couldn’t tell him about my situation, so I took abortion pills to end the pregnancy. I didn’t want my child to suffer because of my mistakes, just like my son has.”
Cathy hugged Lina tightly as they both cried. Drake watched silently, moved by their bond.
That night, Cathy reflected deeply on her future. She realized that love alone didn’t guarantee happiness. Although she didn’t have strong feelings for Drake, she began to consider his proposal. After a sleepless night, she called him the next afternoon.
“Drake,” Cathy said hesitantly, “I’ll marry you. But the wedding must be simple and held here in my hometown.”
Drake’s voice lit up with excitement. “Thank you, Cathy. I promise—it’ll be exactly as you want.”
Chapter 8: A Simple Wedding
A few days later, Cathy and Drake were married in a modest ceremony. Drake’s parents and grandfather arrived to welcome their new daughter-in-law, while Cathy’s grandparents stood proudly as her family.
Cathy, an orphan, had lost her mother during childbirth and her father shortly before her birth. Despite the tragedy, her loving grandparents had raised her with strength and positivity, ensuring she never felt alone or incomplete.
After the wedding, Drake took Cathy to the city, where she began working as an online teacher. Drake continued his career as a captain, and their love grew stronger despite challenges.
Chapter 9: A Heartbreaking Journey
In their first year of marriage, Cathy and Drake tried to have a child but struggled with infertility. A visit to a specialist revealed that Drake had a low sperm count, leaving the couple heartbroken but hopeful.
Three years passed, and their bond remained unshaken. Then, after their wedding anniversary, Drake received a call from a friend about an opportunity to assist a diplomat from another country. It was a prestigious assignment, and Drake eagerly accepted.
Three days into his journey, disaster struck. The plane crashed into a mountain during a storm. While the diplomat and other passengers survived, Drake was thrown into a river after hitting his head on a rock. Rescue teams saved the others, but Drake was nowhere to be found.
At home, Cathy felt a sudden wave of anxiety. Around midnight, she received the devastating call: Drake was missing. She was hysterical, but his family stayed by her side to support her. Days turned into months, and months into years. Five years passed, and Cathy continued searching for answers.
Chapter 10: A Glimmer of Hope
On what would have been their eighth wedding anniversary, Cathy received a message from Lina: “I saw someone in another town who looks like Drake. He has amnesia and is living with an older couple, working on their farm.”
Cathy didn’t believe it at first, but when Lina sent her a photo, her heart raced. She asked Lina to accompany her to meet the man.
At the farm, Cathy saw Drake feeding pigs outside a shabby house—a stark contrast to the life they once shared. She greeted the elderly couple, who explained how they had found Drake in the river, bleeding from his head. They had taken him to the hospital, but no one came to claim him. When he woke up, he called them his parents, and they had cared for him ever since.
Cathy broke down in tears and hugged Drake tightly. “Who are you?” he asked, confused. “Are you my long-lost sister?”
That night, Cathy showed him their wedding photos and other memories, hoping to jog his memory. But it was no use.
Chapter 11: A New Chapter
The next morning, Cathy brought Drake back to the city for a full medical evaluation. He struggled to adjust to the luxurious house, which felt familiar yet foreign. At first, he called Cathy his sister, but she remained patient and supportive.
Weekly hospital visits revealed the truth: Drake had a tumor caused by the impact of hitting his head on the rock.
Chapter 12: A Spring of Pain and Hope
Cathy couldn’t hold back her emotions any longer. She stormed into the garden, tears streaming down her face, and cried out to the heavens. “Why, God? Why am I still suffering? Why do the people I love keep leaving me?”
It was spring, her favorite season, but this year, it brought no joy. As she sat in the garden, she noticed the lavender flowers beginning to bloom. Lavender had always been her favorite, a symbol of hope and renewal. But now, the sight of them only deepened her sorrow. She fell to her knees, letting the pain pour out of her heart.
Chapter 13: A Dream and a Memory
Meanwhile, Drake was lost in a vivid dream. He saw Cathy, radiant in a white wedding dress, surrounded by their loved ones in the small town. They were celebrating a beautiful night together.
But the dream took a dark turn. As they drove away, a large truck suddenly appeared, heading straight for their car. Drake swerved to avoid it, crashing into a bridge and plunging into the water below. In the dream, he saw Cathy drowning. Desperate to save her, he swam upward, calling her name. He performed CPR, shouting for her to wake up, but she remained unresponsive.
“Cathy!” he screamed, jolting awake. His heart raced as the memories came flooding back. He remembered everything—his life, his love, and the years they had lost.
Chapter 14: A Rainy Reunion
The weather shifted dramatically as heavy rain began to pour. Drake rushed outside, searching for Cathy. He found her lying on the ground in the garden, drenched and crying as she stared at the blooming lavender flowers.
Lavender—her favorite flower. He had planted and cared for them as a gift to her. Seeing her in such pain broke his heart.
“Cathy,” he called out, his voice trembling. Tears streamed down his face as he knelt beside her. “I’m so sorry. I’m sorry for the five years I was gone. I’m sorry for everything.”
He carried her inside, changed her clothes, and held her tightly as she slept.
Chapter 15: A New Beginning
When Cathy woke up, she was startled to see Drake sitting beside her, staring at her with a gentle smile. “Good morning,” he said softly. “I made breakfast for you.”
She blinked, unsure if she was still dreaming. “Drake... is it really you? Do you remember everything now?”
He nodded, tears in his eyes. “Yes, Cathy. I remember everything. I’m so sorry for all the pain I caused you.”
In the days that followed, they spent every moment cherishing each other. A month later, Cathy discovered she was pregnant. Overwhelmed with emotion, she didn’t know what to say.
At the hospital, the pregnancy was confirmed, and their families were overjoyed to learn that a new life was on the way. Drake’s family, however, remained unaware of his health condition.
ix months after Drake’s diagnosis, his tumor grew aggressively, spreading to both hemispheres of his brain. Stage 4. Cathy and Drake had hoped for more time, but the rapid changes in his condition came as a devastating blow. His body grew weaker by the day, and surgery was no longer an option.
Despite this, Drake remained determined to cherish every moment. He poured his energy into taking care of Cathy and their unborn child, showering them with love even as his strength faded.
Three months later, their family welcomed its greatest treasure—Cathy gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. He was the spitting image of Drake, and everyone marveled at the resemblance. Holding his newborn son in his arms, Drake’s face lit up with joy as he gently tapped Cathy’s hand.
Drake: "He’s perfect, Cathy. Look at him—he’s just like me. You’ve given me everything." Cathy: "No, Drake. We’ve given each other everything."
As the days passed, Drake’s appearance changed drastically. His weight dropped, his vision blurred, and eventually, he lost his sight altogether. He knew his time was running out, but he kept his spirits high, pouring all his love into Cathy and their son.
Three months later, Drake’s condition worsened, and he was taken to the hospital. Cathy stayed by his side, holding his hand through his final moments.
Drake: "Cathy, I love you... and our son. Please be strong. I’ll always be here, watching over you both." (Tears streamed down Cathy’s face as she hugged him tightly.) Cathy: "I promise, Drake. You’ll always be in our hearts."
Drake smiled one last time, closed his eyes, and fell into eternal rest.
Chapter 16: Renewed Purpose
The pain of Drake’s passing weighed heavily on Cathy, but she found solace in their son—Drake II. She believed his birth was God’s way of showing her that even in loss, there is a reason to keep living.
Five years after Drake’s death, Cathy decided to live with her in-laws so her son would never feel incomplete. She devoted herself to giving Drake II the love, care, and guidance he needed to thrive. One spring afternoon, she sat in the garden, lost in her memories.
Cathy (to herself): "I still feel the pain of losing everyone I’ve loved—my parents, my husband. But now, I wake up each morning with hope and positivity. My son is my reason to keep moving forward."
Her thoughts were interrupted by a small voice. Drake II: "Mama, I want ice cream!"
Cathy turned to see her son smiling, his face a perfect reflection of his father’s. Tears welled in her eyes.
Her in-laws gently remarked, “Cathy, Drake is not gone. He lives on in this little boy. Our son became your blessing, and now he’s here to give you strength.”
That day, the cherry blossoms and lavender blooms danced beautifully in the garden. Spring had come again, reminding Cathy of life’s seasons—sadness, happiness, love, and renewal.
Cathy (to herself): "Everything happens for a reason. I may not understand it now, but I know this journey has shaped me into who I’m meant to be."
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