Chapter 1: A Love Story with Coffee

Dear Coffee,

It feels like ages since we've been apart, and now I'm no longer keeping track of the days or months since we shared those moments together. The reality of our separation still seems surreal.

Our journey began with such passion. I remember sitting in the mountains, grappling with my low energy during the pandemic, and yearning for the cozy ambiance of coffee shops where I would often write. It dawned on me that I could easily bring that experience home with a coffee maker. That’s when you entered my life, filling my mornings with your delightful aroma.

Our relationship was intoxicating—full of anticipation and appreciation. There were times when I craved you so much that we would even meet in the afternoons.

People often rave about the energy boost you provide, but for me, it was the combination of your rich, bitter flavor mingled with the sweetness I added, alongside the sensory delights of your warmth and scent. It truly was the ideal way to kickstart my day, igniting my motivation to rise.

This morning, I found myself awake at 4:30 a.m., feeling the chill in the air. My mind was racing, yet I hesitated to leave the comfort of my bed. I reminisced about you and felt your absence deeply. I knew that if you were here, you would have inspired me to get moving.

But you were gone, and I no longer even possess a coffee maker.

I’m unsure when it all changed. Perhaps you recall the moment better than I do? I just remember the onset of acid reflux after our time together. Initially, I couldn't fathom that it could be you, my faithful companion of many months.

As I experimented and tried to pinpoint the cause, it became increasingly apparent that you were the culprit. I tried various brands, switched to an espresso maker, sampled you black, and altered my creamers, but nothing alleviated the discomfort.

It was a painful realization that I had to confront. Letting go of you meant sacrificing the good moments we shared. Eventually, I made the difficult choice to part ways. Now, even the thought of you triggers that familiar unease. It’s just not something I can tolerate anymore.

Yet, I find myself struggling to find a substitute for you. No other drink has filled the void you left behind.

I've experimented with hot cocoa, warm tea, matcha, and countless coffee alternatives, but nothing compares. Accepting this loss is hard, much like coming to terms with the absence of other cherished individuals in my life.

I want you to know that you remain in my thoughts, and this journey has not been easy for me. It seems you have moved on swiftly, and I hope you’ve found a more fulfilling relationship.

I miss you dearly, my love,

Jackie

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