~Prologue~

I stare out the window of his office, watching the planes go by, the endless line of traffic, the leaves elegantly falling and the trees swaying in the breeze. As if nothing’s happening. As if my whole world isn’t crumbling around me.

“Burn it,” I order coldly, my eyes stinging with tears about to spill, turning to face him. He ignores my command, staring at the envelope in his hand. “I said burn it,” I repeat and his eyes flicker from me, to the envelope, and back. “No,” He pauses, a tear rolling down my cheek and over my chapped lips, “You should read it.”

I shake my head, my lips trembling as more tears begin to make their journey from my eyes to my chin, a few falling onto my lap. I choke out a sob, not daring to look at him. “I can’t,” I manage to stutter, spluttering a bit. “I understand, but just... Keep it. You never know when you might change your mind,” He suggests, holding it out to me again.

“Ok,” I slowly reach out, clasping my fingers on the envelope from my mother. It’s been seven years since I last heard from her. What could she possibly want? “Ok munchkin,” He sighs, running a hand through his hair. “Thanks dad,” I mumble, standing up. “It’s okay sweetheart. Now go get some rest,” I nod in response, stumbling down the staircase.

Well this has been one hell of a long day...