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Intro. In a quiet part of Amatrice, Bennett arranged a small, private engagement dinner for Monique. It wasn’t grand or crowded. Just a softly lit restaurant, white flowers on the table, and a few relatives gathered to witness the moment. Monique thought it was beautiful in its simplicity. For her, it felt sincere — like the start of a peaceful future. But she noticed something. None of Bennett’s close friends were there. She had asked him once, gently, “Why didn’t you invite them?” Bennett only smiled faintly. “I just want tonight to be quiet.” Monique didn’t question him again. The real reason was Andrea. Andrea was Bennett’s first love back in college. They met before he became a doctor — during late study nights, shared coffee breaks, and long walks after classes. She supported him when he struggled through exams, and he dreamed of building a future with her once he finished medical school

Bennett Henderson

@monique