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Chapter- I "Christmas Time"



"Some people wish to change the futurama but it can only be changed by the fate" 

"The world revolves around time, Messing with time can lead to the worst consequences. " "Anything can be restored, but time couldn't, which makes us regret our actions"

[Main Lead's POV] (Alex)

Do you daydream while working? Well, I do. My job here is mind-numbingly dull, and my life? Well, it's a convoluted mess of twists and turns that you won't believe. But today, I'm going to lay it all out for you – my life story, with all its peculiarities and surprises. Why am I doing this, you ask? Because in the world I inhabit, judgment is as common as the air we breathe. No matter how hard you try, you can't escape it.

Now, my world may not be all that different from yours. It's just that time operates a little differently here, with its own peculiarities and variants. Confused? Don't worry, I'll explain it all. Let's rewind to that time when I found myself in a particularly precarious situation – I was in the bathroom, only to realize I had run out of toilet paper. Oh, the joys of life, right? But no, that's not where my tale truly begins.

Picture this: I once had the misfortune of confusing my face wash with a pile of dirty laundry. That's right, I managed to lather my face with a sock. Don't ask how, because even I can't explain it. But no, that's not the beginning either.

My story truly takes off at the point when my mundane existence took an unexpected turn. You see, life has a funny way of shaking things up just when you least expect it. It was a day much like any other – a symphony of monotony and routine – when destiny decided to intervene.

But before we dive into the juicy details, let me tell you a little secret. In my world, appearances are deceiving, and reality is a slippery slope. People wear masks, and their true intentions remain hidden beneath layers of facades. Trust me, it's a world where nothing is as it seems, and everyone has their own agenda.

So, grab a seat, my friend, and prepare to embark on a journey filled with bizarre encounters, inexplicable coincidences, and moments that will leave you questioning the very fabric of reality. As I share my tale, I hope you'll understand that in this world of ours, judgments come swift and hard, and the only way to navigate through it all is by embracing the unexpected twists and turns that life throws our way.

A big hurricane was going to destroy the whole Palace, and the King was going to lose his Magical Crown to the dark hurricane which was formed by Evil, The king almost caught his crown when suddenly someone shouted, "Alex!", Don't worry, it's not that something happened, It was just my boss bothering me while daydreaming. 

"Yes, Ma'am," I replied with a heavy sigh, my shoulders slumping. It was another one of those days, facing the inevitable music of my boss's reprimands.

"You are so lazy, Alex. Customers are always complaining about you," my boss taunted, her voice dripping with irritation.

I couldn't help myself. A mischievous grin tugged at my lips. "Well, are you sure the customers complain about me and not your goods?" I shot back, feigning innocence.

My boss's face flushed with anger, her eyes narrowing. "How dare you! Are you trying to be cool here?" she snapped, her voice laced with annoyance.

My attempt at humor had clearly backfired, and I knew I was treading dangerous waters. "No, I was just trying to explain the scenario," I hurriedly explained, my tone more conciliatory.

"Really! Let me explain something to you, Alex. Listen carefully, and maybe you'll learn something valuable," she retorted, her words laced with a sharp edge. "Here's a request for you to fulfill: 'YOU ARE FIRED.' Now please leave."

My heart sank, and a wave of panic washed over me. "What do you mean? I didn't even receive my salary yet, and Christmas is just around the corner. How can you do this to me? I'm sorry, just give me one more chance," I pleaded, desperation creeping into my voice.

My boss leaned back in her chair, her expression unmoved by my plea. "If life were filled with chances, Alex, then reality would have no boundaries, and the future would cease to exist," she stated, her words surprisingly philosophical for a moment. It was as if she had suddenly morphed into a motivational speaker, delivering life lessons with an air of authority.

As I stood there, the weight of her words settled on my shoulders. It was a bitter pill to swallow, realizing that my job – and perhaps my entire future – had slipped through my fingers due to my own shortcomings. The office seemed to close in around me, the harsh fluorescent lights casting a cold pallor over everything.

In that moment, I had to face the harsh reality that I had failed – failed to meet expectations, failed to seize opportunities, and failed to truly understand the consequences of my actions. As I turned to leave the office, my mind raced with thoughts of what lay ahead. What would become of me now, with Christmas looming and uncertainty clouding my path? Only time would tell.

As I walked out of the office, a sense of resignation settled over me. I hadn't insisted much; there was little point in arguing with my boss when her decision seemed so final. The truth was, it wasn't entirely my fault. Sure, I had my share of laziness and moments of apathy, but there were underlying factors at play that had contributed to my downfall.

The produce stand I managed – the one that had turned into a rather unfortunate punchline – wasn't exactly set up for success. The fruits and vegetables I sold were supposed to be fresh and enticing, but more often than not, they arrived already showing signs of age and wear. It was hard to attract customers when the very products I was supposed to be promoting lacked the quality they were supposed to have.

I found myself lost in thought as I made my way through the city streets. The bustling activity around me seemed to mock my own uncertainty. What was I going to do now? I had tried my best, put in the effort to draw people to the stand, but it was a tough competition. The older, more experienced customers knew the difference between good quality produce and subpar offerings. I couldn't blame them for choosing wisely, but it left me struggling to make ends meet.

I hadn't always been in such a dire situation. Not too long ago, life had been much more promising. But circumstances had a way of changing, and now I found myself wrestling with the harsh realities of rent, food, and everyday expenses. I wasn't exactly destitute, but the constant pressure of financial strain had turned my once-comfortable life into a stressful mess.

I sighed, my thoughts a whirlwind of frustration and nostalgia. Memories of better days flickered through my mind – lazy weekends with friends, carefree laughter, and the feeling of having the world at my feet. Now, even my own friends and neighbors seemed to see me through a different lens – the guy who couldn't keep his job, the one struggling to make ends meet. The label of "unemployed" had become my unwanted companion, a constant reminder of my current state.

It was as if life had taken a sudden detour, and I was left navigating uncharted territory. I wasn't entirely sure how I had ended up here, but I knew that I couldn't stay stagnant. With a determined glint in my eye, I realized that it was up to me to redefine my path, to find a way to reclaim my sense of purpose and direction. The journey ahead might be challenging, but I was determined to prove that I was more than just a victim of circumstances – I was Alex, and I was ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead.

On walking across the street, I felt very lonely. Everyone was walking with their hope, family and wishes while everyone's house was one above one, the mountains were filled with Christmas trees And light, some were enjoying their camping whereas some people were enjoying in their home, everyone's house was filled with presents and happiness. The streets were all decorated with lights and Christmas toys, everything could be found in a combination of red and green, A big CHRISTMAS SALE in every market and the restaurants had special Christmas offers, Some were enjoying themselves with their families while some were with their friends, Parents were with their kids and Kids were with their partners, the street was were wholesome and everyone was enjoying their time, While I was all alone, an unemployed guy with no family or friends all alone in such a loving street.

It's not that I never had family, but the thing is... ouch!

I stumbled and fell to the ground, my thoughts abruptly interrupted as a passerby accidentally bumped into me. "Hey, watch out, man!" I muttered, a mix of frustration and embarrassment coloring my words. As I picked myself up and dusted off my clothes, I realized that I had been lost in thought, standing right in the middle of the bustling street, lost in my memories.

The melancholic reverie I had been immersed in suddenly made sense – I had been remembering and talking about my family, delving into a chapter of my life that still carried a sharp ache. And in my absorption, I had become oblivious to the world around me, lost in the whirlwind of emotions that accompanied those memories.

Regret and sadness swirled within me as I continued to move along the sidewalk, my gaze cast downward. The day my family left me was etched into my mind with painful clarity. It had been a turning point, a moment that altered the course of my life and shaped the person I had become.

As I walked, the bustling city continued to move around me, a vivid contrast to the quiet turmoil within. Faces passed by – strangers going about their own lives, unaware of the weight of my history. Memories of happier times flickered through my mind – the warmth of my parents' laughter, the playful antics with my siblings, and the feeling of being enveloped in a cocoon of love and security.

But life had a way of twisting and turning, and circumstances beyond my control had torn that cocoon apart. The pain of abandonment, the lingering questions that had gone unanswered – they were scars that had never truly healed. And yet, I couldn't help but wonder if there was more to the story, if there were pieces I had yet to uncover.

With a sigh, I shook my head, trying to dispel the heaviness that threatened to consume me. I was determined not to let the past define me, not to let the pain dictate my present. As I continued to walk, my steps grew steadier, a renewed sense of purpose taking hold.

Life was a complex tapestry of moments – some filled with joy, others with sorrow. And while I couldn't change the past, I could shape my future. With each step, I moved forward, carrying my history with me but refusing to be burdened by it. As the city carried on around me, I felt a glimmer of hope – a reminder that even amidst the pain, there was a chance for healing and a new beginning.

It all started three years back. Back then I was a different guy, I had a loving family and a secure job, and I had a loving wife and two cute daughters, I also used to enjoy every Christmas with my family, bringing them gifts and decorating our house all together with happiness But, things aren't always good. 

Finally, I reached my small rental house, there wasn't much space in my house but it was enough for an unemployed guy like me, I was done with today and wanted to take some rest, I grabbed my blanket and jumbled off on the bed with relief and Closed my eyes, in no time I was already sleeping.

As I woke up, the soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. The digital clock on my bedside table read 10:00 AM – early for an unemployed person, I thought with a wry smile. I stretched lazily, my limbs protesting against the idea of leaving the comfort of my bed. Just as I was about to settle back into the welcoming embrace of sleep, something caught my eye – a glimmer of vibrant green in my garden.

Curiosity piqued, I pushed myself upright, using the table near my bed as support. I shuffled over to the balcony door, the cold floor sending a shiver up my spine. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I peered outside, my gaze locking onto the unexpected sight that greeted me.

My garden, once a rather neglected and unremarkable patch of land, was now transformed into a festive wonderland. Christmas decorations adorned every corner, casting a kaleidoscope of colors against the backdrop of morning tranquility. Twinkling lights danced among the branches of trees, while cheerful ornaments hung from makeshift poles. It was a scene straight out of a holiday movie, a stark contrast to the reality of my mundane existence.

A puzzled frown creased my brow. Christmas? That wasn't something I celebrated anymore. The holiday had lost its sparkle for me over the years, becoming just another day on the calendar. Yet here, right before my eyes, was a spectacle that seemed to defy the ordinary.

My mind raced, contemplating the possibilities. Could it be a prank pulled by mischievous neighbors? Or perhaps a well-intentioned friend who wanted to bring a touch of cheer to my life? I hesitated, torn between retreating back to the comfort of my bed and stepping out to investigate.

In the end, curiosity won out. With a determined nod, I threw on a sweater and made my way downstairs. As I stepped into the garden, the festive ambiance enveloped me. The crisp air carried the faint scent of pine, mingling with the aroma of hot cocoa and freshly baked cookies – a sensory overload that I hadn't anticipated.

I wandered through the garden, a mixture of emotions swirling within me. The decorations were charming, there was no denying that. But they also felt like a reminder of the things I had left behind, the memories that had grown distant and bittersweet over time.

As I gazed at the twinkling lights, I realized that this unexpected spectacle held a message. It was a reminder that even in the midst of routine and monotony, life had a way of surprising us. It was a reminder to embrace moments of joy, even when they appeared out of nowhere.

With a wistful smile, I took a deep breath of the crisp air, allowing the magic of the moment to wash over me. Perhaps, just perhaps, it was time to let a little bit of that holiday spirit back into my life, 

There could be two things right now, my mind mused as I stood there, absorbing the surreal scene that unfolded before me.

The first possibility that crossed my mind was that perhaps this garden no longer belonged to the landlord, and by extension, no longer to my rented house. It seemed improbable, though. The garden was a mere five meters squared – an unremarkable patch of land that had never drawn much attention. Why would anyone suddenly decide to buy it, especially without notifying me? It seemed like a stretch, an explanation that required a leap of logic I wasn't quite willing to make.

But then, a more whimsical thought tugged at the edges of my consciousness – a second possibility, one tinged with an air of fantasy. What if, just what if, I was a secret superhero? What if this lavishly decorated garden was a signal from a higher power, urging me to embrace life to the fullest? The idea was both exhilarating and ludicrous, and I couldn't help but chuckle at the thought. After all, I was far from the heroic figures that graced comic book pages or movie screens.

I shook my head, dispelling the fanciful notion. Superheroes weren't real, and grand cosmic messages weren't likely to manifest in the form of Christmas decorations. Yet, as I stood there, the vibrant colors and twinkling lights seemed to hold a mysterious allure, a sense of wonder that I hadn't felt in a long time.

As I pondered these possibilities, I realized that the truth likely lay somewhere in between. There was no supernatural force at play, and my garden hadn't miraculously changed ownership overnight. Instead, it was a reminder that life could still surprise me, that even the mundane could be transformed into something magical.

With a smile, I took a step forward, allowing myself to fully embrace the festive atmosphere. I marveled at the care and attention that had gone into decorating the garden, appreciating the effort someone had put forth to bring a touch of joy to my world.

As I wandered among the decorations, the realization struck me – it didn't matter whether I was a superhero or not. What mattered was the moment, the sense of wonder and possibility that had been injected into my otherwise ordinary morning. It was a gentle nudge to step outside my comfort zone, to explore new horizons and rediscover the beauty in the world around me.

Ah! This is making me crazy, "Who the hell decorated my garden, huh?" I exclaimed, a mix of frustration and surprise coloring my voice.

"It was me!" came a reply, a voice so sweet and melodious that it caught me off guard.

I turned around to find a young woman standing there, a sheepish smile tugging at the corners of her lips. Her presence was as unexpected as the festive garden that now surrounded me.

"Oh! I see, and who are you?" I inquired, my tone laced with curiosity despite my initial irritation.

She extended a hand toward me, her eyes shining with sincerity. "I'm Cora," she introduced herself, her voice carrying the warmth of genuine friendliness. "I actually just moved into the house next door. I noticed that everyone else had decorated their gardens for Christmas, and yours was the only one that was empty. I thought it would be nice to spread a little holiday cheer to your side too."

I couldn't help but soften at her explanation. The anger that had initially flared within me ebbed away, replaced by a sense of appreciation for her thoughtfulness. It was true that I had grown accustomed to a certain isolation, shutting myself off from the world around me, even during occasions like Christmas.

Cora's innocent gesture reminded me that sometimes, it took the kindness of a stranger to remind us of the simple joys in life. I found myself chuckling at my own overreaction, realizing how quickly I had jumped to conclusions.

"Hey, no need to apologize," I reassured her with a genuine smile. "I guess I was just caught off guard. Thank you for decorating my garden. It looks amazing, really."

Cora's smile brightened, and I could see a hint of relief in her eyes. "I'm glad you like it," she replied, her voice genuinely pleased. "I thought it might bring a little more holiday spirit to the neighborhood."

As we stood there, a newfound camaraderie blossomed between us. Cora and I chatted about the decorations, Christmas traditions, and life in the neighborhood. It turned out that we had more in common than I had initially thought, and her infectious enthusiasm for the holiday season was contagious.

By the time our conversation came to an end, I found myself genuinely grateful for Cora's unexpected intervention. She had not only brightened up my garden but also my day. As she bid me farewell and returned to her own house, I couldn't help but reflect on the irony of the situation – a simple act of kindness had shattered the monotony of my life and opened the door to new possibilities.

 **We were having nothing to say or react to so here we go with an awkward silence** 

As I stood in the midst of the festive decorations, I felt a renewed sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe, the twists and turns that life threw my way could lead to something beautiful after all. And as I looked around at the glittering lights and cheerful ornaments, I realized that even in the most unexpected moments, there was room for joy, connection, and the magic of human kindness.

If she had just moved in as a new neighbor, why would she decorate my garden so quickly, as if she knows me or is my good friend? The thought swirled through my mind as I tried to make sense of Cora's spontaneous gesture. It was almost as if there was an uncanny connection between us, though logic told me otherwise.

"Wow, and I thought I was a superhero with magical powers to decorate my house while sleeping," I mused aloud, my cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and amusement at my own thoughts.

"Hahaha! That's a funny guess," Cora chimed in, her laughter contagious and genuine.

I raised an eyebrow, both intrigued and puzzled by her response. "What do you mean?" I inquired, my curiosity getting the best of me.

Cora's laughter continued, and she playfully waved a hand in the air. "Oh, it's nothing. Just a silly thought," she replied, her tone light and carefree. Her laughter seemed almost too carefree, almost like... could she hear my thoughts? It was a preposterous idea, one that belonged in the realm of science fiction rather than reality.

I shook my head, dismissing the notion as absurd. "Must be my imagination running wild," I mumbled to myself, chalking it up to the strangeness of the situation.

Cora's demeanor shifted suddenly, her expression changing to one of realization. "Oh no! I just remembered," she exclaimed, her eyes widening. "I left a pot burning on the stove at my house. I need to go take care of it. It was really nice meeting you, though. Bye!"

Before I could respond, Cora was off and running, leaving me standing there in a mix of amusement and confusion. It was as if she had abruptly remembered an urgent task, but her haste and nervousness seemed a little too exaggerated. Was there something she wasn't telling me? Or was it just a coincidence?

As I watched her disappear into her own house, I couldn't help but shake my head with a chuckle. The encounter had taken more twists and turns than I could have anticipated, and while I couldn't quite put my finger on the true nature of Cora's intentions, one thing was certain – my once mundane life had just taken an unexpected detour into the realm of curiosity and intrigue.

The festive ambiance of the decorated garden brought a bittersweet warmth to the air, evoking memories of the joyous Christmases I had once shared with my family. I gazed at the decorations, each twinkling light and ornate ornament serving as a reminder of the love and laughter we had once enjoyed together. It had been years since I had celebrated any occasion with such fervor, and while the pain of my loss still lingered, there was a newfound comfort in reliving those cherished moments in some small way.

As I stood amidst the decorations, I couldn't help but reminisce about that last Christmas we had spent together. Angela's eyes had lit up with delight as she unwrapped her presents, and the aroma of the freshly baked pie had filled the house with a sense of togetherness. Those were the times of simple joys, of shared laughter, and the warmth of family bonds that had wrapped around us like a cozy blanket.

With my camera in hand, I snapped a few photos to capture the essence of the moment. The thought occurred to me that Cora's actions had inadvertently rekindled a spark of holiday spirit within me. She had managed to bring a glimmer of light into my life during a time when darkness had seemed to dominate every corner of my world.

Yet, as I reviewed the photos, a niggling suspicion continued to gnaw at me. Her timing, her eagerness to decorate my garden – it all felt too orchestrated, too perfectly tailored to my past. Could it truly be a random act of kindness, or was there something more beneath the surface?

With a determined resolve, I sank into deep thought as I contemplated the enigma that was Cora. My current state of unemployment afforded me the luxury of time, and my curiosity was piqued. I decided to embark on a journey of discovery, determined to unravel the mystery that surrounded this seemingly kind and beautiful neighbor.

Who was Cora, and what was her connection to my past? The question echoed in my mind as I delved into my own investigation, my quest for answers becoming an unexpected and thrilling adventure. Little did I know that this pursuit would lead me down a path filled with twists, turns, and revelations that would forever change the course of my life.

As I settled into my bed, the events of the day swirled through my mind like a hazy dream. The mixture of emotions – from frustration to surprise to a renewed sense of purpose – had left me mentally exhausted. But despite the whirlwind of thoughts, a sense of tranquility began to wash over me as the weariness settled into my bones. The soft glow of the Christmas lights outside my window cast a gentle ambiance, creating a peaceful backdrop for my restless mind.

I closed my eyes and let out a sigh, allowing the weight of the day to slowly melt away. My body sank into the mattress, and the rhythmic sound of my own breathing became a soothing lullaby. The events of the evening, the encounter with Cora, and the mystery that now beckoned me to unravel it, all faded into the background as I succumbed to the embrace of sleep.

In my dreams, I found myself wandering through a labyrinth of possibilities. The path was illuminated by a soft, ethereal light, and each turn led me deeper into the maze of thoughts and emotions that had been stirred by the events of the day. Faces from my past, memories long buried, and fleeting glimpses of the future danced before me, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.

As the night wore on, my dreams took on a surreal quality. I found myself standing at a crossroads, surrounded by swirling mist and a sense of anticipation. In this dreamlike state, I was confronted with the choices I had made, the paths I had taken, and the ones that lay ahead. It was as if my subconscious was guiding me through a journey of self-discovery, urging me to confront the fears and uncertainties that had held me captive for so long.

And then, as dawn's light began to filter through the curtains, I awoke with a start. The dream, vivid and fleeting, left an indelible impression on my mind. I lay there for a moment, absorbing the remnants of the dream, before slowly rising from the bed. The world outside my window was painted in the soft hues of morning, a new day beckoning me with its promise of unknown adventures.

With a newfound sense of purpose, I pushed aside the lingering traces of sleep and rose from the bed. Today was indeed a new day, one filled with possibilities, challenges, and the unraveling of a mystery that had taken root in my life. As I took a deep breath, I knew that my journey had only just begun, and I was ready to embrace whatever lay ahead.

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