I opened the box carefully.
Inside were letters. Dozens of them, folded neatly and stacked in tight rows. Some were on notebook paper, others on fancy stationery. They all looked worn, as if they had been read and refolded many times.
I pulled out the top letter and began to read.
The handwriting was shaky, but unmistakable.
My dear Bill,
I know you’re probably angry with me. You have every right to be. But I want you to know that I think about you every single day. I watch from a distance because I’m too afraid to come back. I made mistakes. Terrible mistakes. But I never stopped loving you.
One day, when you’re old enough to understand, I’ll explain everything. Until then, please know that your father—Edward—loves you with all his heart. He gave you what I couldn’t. I will always be grateful to him.
Wait for me.
— Alyssa
