369 Christmas Eve - Part 2 - Anna and Jake 2

Grasping very well about their impromptu date plan, Jake prepared to leave their house early, considering the traffic they would face. Just as expected, the streets grew livelier with Christmas lights and decorations. People crowded the sidewalks to celebrate the evening. Meanwhile, cars on the road silently waited for the light to turn green.

Anna sat through the long ride, listening to the radio as they drove into the bustling streets of Manhattan, going around blocks to catch up.

Following a busy ride, Jake drove nearby to park their car and chose to walk to their first destination.

A 3 minutes walk introduced them to an iconic place filled with incredible ambiance, beauty, and grandeur.

Anna and Jake reached the decorated St. Patrick's cathedral, located on Manhatten. This gothic architecture covering over an entire block is known as the glory of Catholic America.

"Church?" Anna uttered in awe.

Jake nodded.

It wasn't a disappointment, but a least expected place to start their evening. Also, it wasn't their first time visiting here. The two had already come here a few times to pray.

However, who would plan their date to start by visiting a cathedral?

Anna exhaled since she couldn't resist this sight of flamboyance. In a way, Anna felt glad about Jake's choice. Visiting God and sincerely praying is something she could use right now, a place to feel at peace and let go of the worries.

"I thought this could be a good start!" Jake spoke.

"Don't worry! We'll be attending the evening mass together before we get to enjoy the rest of the evening," he added to reassure.

The past few days had been bitter for both. Facing people's comments and answering to their interests worn the two out. Jake wondered if there could be a place where both can easily strip their worries to someone, and who else could be a better listener than the almighty God.

Jake also believed that this could help Anna to overcome her struggles and give her a clear mind. Plus, he wished that his wife could reach out to him if her worries continue to stress her.

Having convinced themselves, both agreed to enter through the main entrance.

Upon entering the cathedral, the slender marble pillars support the cross-ribbed vaults that rose hundreds of feet above the nave. At the center stood the cathedral sanctuary, holding the main altar covered by a bronze canopy. Looking above the main doors will reveal the Rose window, one of the several stained-glass windows in the cathedral. This colorful work features numerous angels, and below the windows stands one of the cathedral's two organs.

It is easy to get assimilated into admiring this gorgeous high altar and its rich gothic architecture, including thousands of stained glass windows.

**

Anna and Jake sat through the mass to surrender themselves to the almighty. They prayed for happiness and health. Not only for each other but to those dear to them as well.

Anna included Lillian in her prayer, hoping that she could find her happiness soon. She added Giselle and little Lia next. Her list grew from her family to her friends. After done praying for everyone else, Anna came to herself.

As soon as the moment arrived to express her concern, Anna felt the suffocation rush to her mind, filling with excessive anxieties. It was too hard even to think about it. Just as she suffered silently inside, a hand came to rescue her from her misery.

It was Jake who caught her hand quietly. He kept an eye on her from the moment they entered the cathedral. Often, he would peek a glimpse to check if Anna looked fine or not. So far, her face carried warmth and hope, hinting that she was praying sincerely. However, when Jake peeked the last time, he encountered Anna in the same state she was in this early morning. It was not the expression he wished to witness, and it upset him to watch his wife suffer. Immediately, he moved to get hold of her firmly.

Anna glanced at him from a startle. But soon, she sensed the comfort reaching to aid. Her stiff shoulders relaxed finally, feeling the warmth of a hand that reached out for her.

"It's okay!!"

"We'll get through this together!" Jake whispered to her ears.

Anna smiled weakly. Still, it was comforting to hear those words.

'We'll get through this together!' she believed.

The Christmas Eve evening mass finally ended after lasting for about 90 minutes. Having received blessings and prayed to their heart's content, people left the cathedral, feeling pleased. A few stayed back to admire the architecture inside.

Anna and Jake sat down for a few minutes, lingering in the divine sensation for a while. Anna was feeling much better than before. It showed in her face clearly. No longer was she enduring all alone. Jake stood with her in support. Whether it worked or not, Anna could feel at ease from attending the mass.

Having spent enough time in the church, Jake finally urged Anna to leave. Together, they came out to witness a dark sky, feeling the winter breeze hit so hard.

Anna had no clue where they were going next, but Jake stayed sharp. They kept walking, heading northeast on 5th Avenue to then turn left, arriving at 53rd street. Anna wondered, glancing left and right, having no clue where they were going. However, shortly, the two reached their second destination.

Anna stared at the building in shock. A part of her memory tingled to bring back one of the memorable moments in her life.

"Do you remember this place?" Jake asked.

"No."

Anna's harsh reply put her husband in despair. He sulked to explode right away, but Anna stopped him.

"Of course, I remember this place!" she answered.

She took a moment to tease him for fun and enjoyed seeing his reaction.

"You broke my heart for a second," Jake mumbled.

Anna scoffs, and the two continue to stare at the building with a full smile on their faces.

Jake took Anna to 'The Modern' restaurant at the Museum of Modern Art, the city's most prized locations.

It also happens to be the same place where Jake took Anna on their first date.

Having worked hard at his part-time job, he saved enough money to invite Anna for dinner and treat her to an expensive meal at this iconic two-star Michelin restaurant.

This place holds a sweet spot for both, and Anna could hardly resist waiting anymore. She looked at Jake impatiently.

Jake laughed, watching her get excited.

"Alright! Let's go on a date!" Jake said to grab Anna's hand and escorted her to their reservations.