"Reflections of Eternity"

Emma's mind wandered, lost in the labyrinth of memories, as she sat on the couch, Natalie resting her head on her lap. The warmth of the sunbeam streaming through the window danced across Natalie's features, highlighting the gentle curves of her face. Her love-struck expression, even in slumber, was a testament to the deep connection they shared. Emma's gaze drifted to the strands of hair that cascaded down Natalie's back, her fingers itching to gently brush them aside. As she sat there, Emma's thoughts began to drift to their adult life together. She imagined the countless nights they would spend cuddled up by the fireplace, watching the snow fall outside, and the lazy Sundays they would spend lounging in bed, enjoying each other's company. Emma's heart swelled with love and adoration for Natalie, and she couldn't help but feel grateful for every moment they had shared. But as her gaze fell upon Natalie's necklace, a golden cross glinting in the sunlight, Emma's reverie came to an abrupt end. She reached out a hand, intending to gently touch the symbol of Natalie's faith, but as her skin made contact with the cross, a searing pain shot through her finger. She jerked her hand back, wincing in surprise. The burn was a harsh reminder of the truth she had long suppressed – she was no longer accepted in the realm of heaven. The realization hit her like a ton of bricks, and Emma felt her heart sink. Her immortality, once a blessing, had become a curse. She was doomed to walk the earth forever, watching as those she loved grew old and passed away. As she looked down at Natalie, her eyes began to well up with tears. She had always known that their love was fragile, that the passage of time would eventually claim Natalie. Emma had tried to push the thought away, to live in the present and cherish every moment they had, but the truth was impossible to ignore. Natalie, sensing Emma's distress, stirred in her lap, her eyes fluttering open. "Hey, what's wrong?" she asked, her voice husky with sleep. Emma forced a smile, trying to reassure her. "Nothing, just lost in thought." Natalie's gaze searched hers, but Emma knew she couldn't reveal the truth. Not yet, at least. She stroked Natalie's hair, trying to comfort her, but her mind was racing with the implications of her immortality. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the room, Emma felt the weight of her years bearing down on her. She knew that she would have to face the future alone, that Natalie would eventually leave her side. The thought was almost too much to bear, and Emma felt her heart shatter into a million pieces. In that moment, she knew that she would do anything to protect Natalie, to give her the life she deserved. But as she looked at the cross, still warm from her touch, Emma realized that some wounds would never heal, and that her immortality was a constant reminder of her isolation.