Chapter Four

Dearest Theiabelle,

You are the most precious thing to me in this world. Ever since I looked down on your face as a babe, it seemed to me that everything would be okay. I am so proud of you, of all that you are, and of the woman you are becoming. You are kind without fault, you care about everything, always seeing the good in others. I do hope you enjoy your gift, the truth is I am merely returning it to you.

Theia opened the small box, and found a necklace inside. The thin chain was made of metal and had an opaque white pendant. A shard of stone unlike any she had seen before. She had seen plenty of white rocks before, but some quality of the pendant felt different. When she stared into it, it felt like she was staring up at the stars. As if she were insignificant and encompassing all at once.

It is often during times like this, the marks of passing, that I find myself thankful of all I’ve managed to find. A peaceful home, adventure, and you.

Though I find little time to be thankful these days, for the weight of guilt bears upon me. I write this now in weaknesss for what I wish I could say to your face, how sorry I am. You are old enough to know the truth now, to make your own decisions, as I am now ready to face the consequences of mine.

*Eighteen years ago, when I first moved to Mora, I was visited by an old friend. You see, I had escaped an unsavoury professional trade, and this old business associate was the only who had managed to track me. As he darkened my doorstep, though it was not thundering, I felt the storm. For in his hands, bundled in cloth, was a child. A child that I would eventually take as my own. To raise, and to love. And I do love you Theia, with all my heart.