Years passed.
I worked several part time jobs to support myself. I studied hard so I can earn scholarships.
I graduated with the highest honors.
As my sister took my photograph, I suddenly remembered my high school graduation.
Is she graduating also?
Is she happy?
Did she remember me?
....
I tried searching for her, asking some of our mutual friends her whereabouts to no avail. A lot of them didn't know where she is.
Meanwhile, I got my license, and took several trainings until I became a specialized physician. I told her that one of my life goals was to become a surgeon. The next time we will meet, I hope I can tell her that I fulfilled one of my life goals.
....
I met new friends.
I improved my cooking. She loved to eat so I tried learning lots of recipes.
I tried hiking,
Joined an astronomy group,
Kept myself busy so that the next time we meet, I can talk more and tell her more about myself.
....
Several people asked me why I wasn't dating someone.
Sometimes I just smile and shrugged.
Other times I just told them that I wasn't interested in dating.
But my sister just look at me with a knowing look.
....
I continued reading several books during my spare time.
I even tried making poems, some of which sounded depressing that I threw those away.
I tried writing short novels in hopes that she might read those someday.
....
My sister got married and moved out. I wanted to stay at home but my parents told me to move out since they are selling the house and move to the countryside. They wanted me to settle down but I told them the usual excuses.
It was hard to move out and even harder to move to another city since houses and apartments for rent or sale locally are few or not in good condition.
....
I moved to a high rise apartment building. I bought the place since I made good money now. I have a car and I can afford to hire someone to clean the place.
Life was good and comfortable but I wasn't content though.
I can eat anywhere I like but I missed those times when she bought me food that she cooked.
I can afford to go on vacation to other countries but I missed those times where we just go to the library or to the park.
I want to bring her to other countries for a vacation, tasting different cuisines, visiting museums and parks, buying her stuff which I know she would like.
But I still couldn't find her.
Sometimes, I want to give up. It was my fault after all. I had a lot of opportunities back then but I was too insecure about myself. In return, I lost plenty of precious time.
....
Time passed.
I became busier as I'm trying to accept the fact that I cannot see her again.
Until one day, while I was about to go home from work, I saw her.
Asta.