The September sun hangs low in the sky when I finally arrive home.
My stone house, built in 1892, stands sentinel-like amid a garden that has clearly suffered from my summer absence. I push open the front door, its familiar creak greeting me like an old friend.
Inside, the golden light of early autumn filters through large modern windows, creating a striking contrast with the ancient architecture. The walls, painted in light hues ranging from white to pale yellow, seem to absorb this warm light. I cross the vast 80m² living room, my footsteps echoing on the hardwood floor, before reaching the kitchen.
The 30m² space, bathed in orange tones, immediately evokes the Mediterranean atmosphere I’ve always cherished. I linger a moment, letting my fingers trail across the countertop, before heading to the stairs.
On the first floor, I pass the four guest rooms, each as functional as they are devoid of personality, before reaching my own. The safe containing my weapons catches my eye briefly, but that’s not what I’m seeking. I move to the small dresser near the bed and extract a wooden box no larger than a matchbox.
I climb to the top floor, where my office occupies the entire attic space. The exposed beams and mansard walls create an intimate, warm atmosphere. I pause for a moment, contemplating this space where I’ve spent countless hours working and thinking.
Finally, I descend and step out into the garden.
The vegetable patch, once meticulously tended, now surrenders to invading weeds. The season’s final tomatoes hang forgotten on disheveled plants. Further out, my astronomical observatory’s dome stands stark against the sky, which begins to take on the colors of twilight.
I settle at the old wrought iron table, placing the small wooden box before me. The air carries a gentle warmth, laden with autumn’s subtle fragrances. With slow, deliberate movements, I open the box and remove a single pill.
“Heart Breaker 365.” I murmur, rolling the pill between my fingers. “Rather poetic name for a poison designed to induce cardiac arrest.”
I lift my gaze to the sky, where the first stars begin to pierce the deepening blue. Taking a deep breath, I savor the crisp evening air. Then, with swift, decisive motion, I bring the pill to my lips and swallow.
The garden’s silence breaks only with the evening song of birds preparing for night.
I close my eyes, feeling the coolness of evening settle on my skin, waiting for destiny to begin its inexorable march.
In this moment of stillness, surrounded by the serene beauty of early autumn, I find myself strangely at peace with my decision.
365 days… no more, no less.
That’s what remains of my life.