Chapter 2: First love, 2.
Years in the past ... ⏳⏳⏳⏳⏳
Spencer's last investigation in Europe took him close to the principality of Liechtenstein. During this time, his work as an investigator had been predominantly focused on tracking down buyers of weapons of war for terrorist purposes and their sources of financial support.
Spencer had just wrapped up his latest investigation into the illegal arms trade in Europe, where his main objective was to identify the buyers involved in these illicit transactions. In addition to this, he had also been investigating the countries and companies that were providing support to extremist groups, both in terms of weapons and ammunition supply and financial backing.
After successfully identifying the buyers involved in these illegal arms deals, Spencer delved deeper into his investigations, attempting to identify the countries and companies that were supporting extremist groups in their efforts.
Following a weekend near Zermatt, Switzerland, Spencer found himself with a rare weekend off before his next assignment in Washington, D.C., USA, scheduled for Tuesday.
Spencer had always been drawn to snow sports, with a particular fixation on two disciplines: snowboarding and skiing. For Spencer, snowboarding was the ultimate challenge, and he always sought to push himself to the limit in this adrenaline-fueled sport. While snowboarding offered an extra dose of challenge, skiing on large mountains provided a sense of freedom and the chance to ski on practically untouched terrain, away from the traditional slopes.
This type of skiing, also known as "free-riding," was the perfect escape for those looking to break free from traditional skiing experiences. Despite the challenges of snowboarding, Spencer had always been drawn to the thrill of the sport. On the other hand, skiing on large mountains offered him a sense of freedom that he couldn't find on traditional slopes.
With a passion for snow sports and a rare weekend off, Spencer was ready to indulge in his favorite activities and recharge before his upcoming assignment in Washington, D.C… Little did he know that this brief respite would lead to unexpected encounters and a turning point in his life.
The adrenaline rush he experienced from free-riding made it the perfect escape from the conventional skiing experience, providing Spencer with a much-needed break from his work as a CIA agent and allowing him to recharge before his next assignment.
Free-riding, also known as off-piste skiing, offered a thrilling and challenging experience. Unlike traditional slopes, these untamed and unmarked areas posed various obstacles such as steep descents, rocks, and trees, making it a sport reserved for experienced athletes.
Leaving the hotel, Spencer decided to take a walk. The serene blue sky contrasted with the peacefulness of the surroundings, surrounded by towering mountains in the heart of the Matter Valley. It was a breathtaking landscape with a cinematic and enchanting backdrop that resembled a stunning painting. Little did Spencer know that an unexpected turn of events was about to occur.
While walking, Spencer unexpectedly collided with a skier. Reacting swiftly, he managed to avoid a disastrous outcome.
"Shit, shit, shit!" he exclaimed, without any embarrassment.
Initially filled with anger, he soon realized that the skier, a woman, was trembling with fear and genuinely apologetic for the accident. Spencer couldn't help but find humor in the unexpected situation.
After calming down, they decided to return to the hotel together, where they shared coffee and wine, and engaging conversations that lasted for six hours. Although it meant missing out on his planned day of extreme sports, Spencer considered it well worth it.
The following day, Spencer had dinner with Emma Frost, a 28-year-old graduate of the prestigious Curtis Institute in Philadelphia. Their time together was delightful, and as the evening came to a close, they shared a passionate kiss.
Emma, though intelligent, defied the typical expectations of a college student by lacking an exaggerated sense of humor. Spencer, on the other hand, had a challenging upbringing and was now a CIA agent, unfamiliar with a normal life. However, Emma's infectious joy and naturalness stirred old-fashioned emotions within Spencer, leading him to experience love for the first time in his life.
...⏳ ⏳
Two years had passed since Emma's death, and Spencer felt as if he had lost everything. The weight of grief pressed heavily on his chest, suffocating him with its relentless grip. It was remarkable how life could change so swiftly, he mused to himself, the bitter taste of loss lingering on his tongue.
Once, he had it all, basking in the warm rays of happiness that caressed his skin. But now, it seemed like he had fallen from heaven into hell, the icy tendrils of despair enveloping his every thought.
The dreams and castles he had meticulously constructed in his mind had crumbled into ashes, their remnants scorching his senses with a lingering scent of broken promises. Each new day became a battle, a struggle to find even a flicker of strength amidst the overwhelming darkness that shrouded his existence.
The pain of losing the woman he loved was overwhelming, leaving Spencer with a deep sense of despair. It felt as if a vital part of his being had perished alongside her, and he questioned whether he could ever regain a sense of completeness.
In an unexpected turn of events, his friend Josh, who had always been apprehensive about committed relationships and marriage, urged them to live together for support and companionship during these trying times.
Despite the agony they both endured, Spencer found solace in supporting Josh from a distance, becoming a spectator in his sister's life. He admired her accomplishments and artistic career from afar, keeping a respectful distance.
As Josh followed Janine's artistic journey as a client, Spencer stood by his side, providing unwavering support. From attending her exhibitions to discussing her artistic vision, Josh immersed himself in Janine's world, appreciating her talent and dedication.
Spencer, a close friend of Josh, always accompanied him, offering encouragement and admiration. Together, they witnessed Janine's artistic growth, celebrating her achievements and finding inspiration in her work. Their bond as friends grew stronger through their shared appreciation for Janine's artistry, creating a unique connection that transcended familial ties.
Over time, both Josh and Spencer found themselves drawn to the world of art. Through their shared experiences of loss and grief, Spencer began to recognize the profound value of love and the significance of cherishing it while it is within our grasp.
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