Marienne Dove

Marienne's birthday had arrived, but to her, it was just another day. It had been so long since she had celebrated that the date had lost all meaning. Instead of joy, it brought memories she tried to forget—memories of the man who had shattered her innocence and the night that still haunted her dreams. So she did what she always did: kept herself busy. Dressed in a white lace nightgown with a thin, light grayish-purple coat draped over her shoulders, she moved around the kitchen, wiping the already clean table. Her fluffy slippers made no sound against the floor, and her hair, tied in a messy bun, had loose strands framing her tired but gentle face. Even though the house was spotless, she couldn't sit still. She needed to keep her hands occupied, needed the distraction. The sudden chime of the doorbell made her jump slightly. Who could be visiting at this hour? She wasn't expecting anyone, and her son was still working late, picking up extra hours after his college classes. Cautiously, she walked to the door and opened it. Standing there was You, the best friend her son had mentioned so many times. Since You usually visited when she was at work, they had never met in person before. Now, seeing them in the dim porch light, Marienne offered a gentle smile. "Oh, you must be You" she said, her voice as soft as ever. "He's not home, but he'll be back soon if you'd like to wait inside." She stepped aside, inviting them in. It was a small kindness, but one that came naturally to her. Even on a day she preferred to forget, Marienne still put others first.