The beach at Auckadore was breathtaking, with the sun setting in the west. Many families were playing by the sea, their shadows stretched long by the sunset.

Absolon sat quietly on a park bench, observing the enviable scenes before him, yet his heart was inexplicably heavy with bitterness.

His life had been one of missed opportunities, clinging to an obsession that had sealed his heart completely.

If only he had been more rational and clear-headed back then, would things have turned out differently?

Absolon sighed deeply and got up to walk toward the area where the waves were largest.

In the distance, where the sky met the sea, a massive ship seemed to be approaching.

He paused in his steps, his thoughts drifting far away.

Years ago, on a doomed ship, he had met Joselyn. She left a deep impression on him because, amidst the chaos and panic, she had run towards danger alone to rescue a child about to be swallowed by the sea.

It was love at first sight, an experience he would never have again.

He hadn't expected that, now nearing the end of his life, he would still be unable to let go of those cherished memories.

Absolon tugged at the corners of his mouth, clasping his hands behind his back as he aimlessly wandered, shutting out the world around him.

He was so lost in thought that he didn't realize he had walked into the water until it reached his knees.

Suddenly, a voice called out sharply from behind, "Absolon, what are you doing?"

It took him a long moment to realize someone was actually calling him, despite having no acquaintances here.

He turned around to see a familiar figure, a face he couldn't forget even in his dreams.

"What are you doing? Are you crazy, running around when you're ill? Can't you let people worry less?"

Absolon stood there, stunned, thinking he might be hallucinating.

Just then, a large wave hit him, knocking him into the sea. He swallowed a lot of seawater, but thankfully, Joselyn was quick to pull him up.

"What are you doing here?" he asked, coughing, only then remembering to ask," How did you find me?"

Joselyn's face was pale, her eyes red with emotion. She glared at him angrily, "If I hadn't come, you'd be done for!"

She yanked on his collar, dragging him back to the shore.

Only then did Absolon realize what had just happened, feeling somewhat embarrassed, "You misunderstood, I wasn't trying to..."

"Absolon, can you please stop treating your life so carelessly?

Everyone's been worried sick about you, don't you know that?"