I let out a small sigh as I saw that I had finally finished the daily care of my garden. A gentle smile graced my lips as I looked at all the species I had planted shining beautifully under the spring sun. A breeze passed over my body, lightly refreshing it and making my loose hair sway. With my hand, I tucked a few strands behind one of my ears and shifted my gaze to the sky. Beautiful. Soft shades of blue decorated most of it, with lovely white clouds slowly drifting by.
"Your garden shines beautifully under your care, miss." I heard an elderly voice near where I was kneeling.
I turned my gaze toward the voice and smiled. Vincent was the closest thing to a father figure I ever had. He was an elderly man with white hair and a few reddish strands of his original color still remaining. Kind green eyes and of average height. He had taken care of me for as long as I could remember.
"Thank you, Vincent. Some flowers required a bit of extra care, but I'm happy they're all healthy." I said in a soft tone.
For as long as I can remember, I've lived in a mansion isolated in a more rural part of the French countryside. On the rare occasions I spoke with my parents, they were far too busy and couldn't allow their 'defective' daughter to stain their perfect reputation. Yes, you understood correctly. I was born with some health issues, and for most of my early years, I stayed in hospitals in an attempt to find a cure—but to no avail. The illness I have is relatively rare and had no effective treatments. The result? I was sent to this place with Albert, a kind butler who worked for my family, to care for me until my death.
"I see. Well, I brought some refreshments and snacks for you, miss. Please, let's move to the shade so you can cool off. Staying too long in the sun will only worsen your health," I heard Albert say in a concerned tone.
A small melancholic smile appeared on my lips. I knew my end was drawing nearer. My body no longer responded to my commands properly. Fatigue was constant, and the pain kept getting worse. Painkillers were part of my routine. But even with all of that, I wasn't afraid of death. I had known for a long time that my end was near. So instead of staying inside, bedridden all day, I liked to go out and enjoy the day. My garden was my greatest pride, and then, of course, came my paintings. I loved painting landscapes and everything my imagination could conjure.
"Thank you, Albert," I said with a smile.
With Albert's help, I slowly stood up and, with the aid of a cane, walked to a small table beautifully set under a large tree that adorned the garden. I took off the sunhat I was wearing for protection and set it aside. Then, I adjusted the summer dress I had on before sitting down after Albert pulled out the chair for me—I thanked him with a quiet "thank you."
I sighed, trying to ease the exhaustion that even a little physical effort had brought upon my body. Then, I picked up the glass of juice already served and brought it to my lips, smiling in relief at the refreshing taste. Once again, I turned my gaze to the sky and felt a spark of melancholy begin to rise. It was my 15th birthday that day, and even though I had Albert, I wished I could spend this kind of date the way I had read in countless stories. A loving mother and a kind father were what I found myself dreaming of having.
"Are you alright, miss? Are you feeling unwell?" I heard Albert's voice bring me back from my thoughts.
"I'm fine, Albert. I'm just a little more thoughtful today, I think... I believe this date brings that out of me," I said, looking at him and showing a small smile to try to ease his worry.
I saw a look of understanding appear in Albert's eyes, followed by a small, sad smile.
"I see. I'm sorry you have to go through this, miss. Is there anything I can do to make it better? I could make that strawberry pie you like," Albert offered.
I let out a soft chuckle at Albert's sweet gesture. He was truly a kind man.
"How could I possibly refuse Mr. Albert's special strawberry pie?" I said with a slightly bigger smile this time as I picked up one of the cookies placed on a plate on the table and took a small bite.
"I'll make sure it's ready for dessert tonight, then," Albert said with a smile on his lips.
I nodded and turned my eyes to my phone on the table. Even living far from civilization, I managed to have access—limited as it was—to technology. Of course, thanks to Albert buying things like a cell phone, a television, and internet access. Even though I wasn't much of a phone user, I liked the options it offered: stories, music, and other forms of entertainment.
I remembered many fan-made stories I had read about movies, shows, and even cartoons—especially those from Japan. Of course, I had watched several of those, some of which brought cultural and mythological elements into their worlds—my favorites. Classics like the Fate series, Danmachi, and even Shuumatsu no Valkyrie, which is relatively recent, but still entertaining. At times, I loved reading the creative stories fans invented, breathing new life into those universes with interesting ideas.
I was pulled out of yet another daydream when I heard Albert pour more juice into my glass. I thanked him and drank it right after.
"Albert, could you prepare a spot on the grass where I can read for a bit, please?" I asked.
"Of course, miss. Anticipating that, I already prepared a spot over there," Albert replied and pointed to a place near the table I hadn't noticed.
It was a blanket spread over the grass with some pillows for me to sit on, snacks and drinks in case I needed them, and some items for comfort. And, of course, a tablet was set there for my reading.
I let out a small laugh, realizing how predictable I was for Albert to already know what I'd want. Slowly, with his help, I got up and walked over to the prepared spot, sitting down on some cushions and leaning against others arranged by the tree trunk.
"Thank you, Albert," I said and then picked up the tablet.
"Do you need anything else, miss?" Albert asked.
"Not for now. Thank you, Albert," I replied, turning my attention to him once again.
"With pleasure, miss. In that case, I'll go finish some chores. If you need anything, please call me," I heard him say.
I nodded and smiled in gratitude. Then, I picked up my tablet and began browsing through various stories as I heard the sound of Albert's footsteps fading into the distance.
With time, I got lost in all sorts of stories that brought smiles, little laughs, and even a few small tears.
And at some point, I began to feel a numbness spread through my body. My eyes growing heavier… my breathing more labored. I knew… it seemed my time had come… Even so, I wasn't afraid. I had known for a while that my moment was drawing near… but I was grateful that my death could be peaceful. That I could eat Albert's delicious snacks, enjoy the cool breeze, care for my flowers one last time… I just hope Albert will be okay. And with those thoughts, my eyes slowly closed… and I felt my consciousness fade away.
And with one final breath, I died.