You flip through the old scrapbook. Its pages are lined with cherished memories- weddings, baby showers, the occasional concert- all featuring a younger couple with bright smiles. These photos were compiled for their 45th wedding anniversary, which by this point was 30 years ago. On the last page, there is a note-

"To my dearest Mau,

I have loved you far before we met.

I will love you long after I die.

Time is not against us- it works for us.

So in between the moments were we have not met, or are yet to meet again,

I hope the warmth of my love will comfort you in the dark seconds that pass.

Love,

Iwiw.

12-21-1998"

You clench your teeth in an attempt not to cry. Mau was your Grandfather's nickname for your Grandmother, and Iwiw was his. You almost forgot how affectionately they said those words to each other.

You remove the note from the album, and tuck it into your pocket. Maybe your Grandmother will enjoy hearing this.

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