As carefully as possible, I pulled back the envelope’s flap, my hands stilling for a brief moment before removing the thick, folded paper inside. I took a deep breath and gave it a gentle tug, unfolding the meticulously arranged stationery.

My sweet girl,

I hate the idea of writing this to you. But I know if I were to broach this subject now, I’d only have a fight on my hands. We’re stubborn, you and I. And that stubbornness has its benefits and its detriments. But I’m a crafty old broad, and one thing death will give me is the last word.

Take The Gables, Kenna. There is no one in this big, beautiful world, I want to have it more. You’ve always seen it as more than a prime piece of real estate. You saw it for what it should always be. A sanctuary. One full of the tales of the past and with potential for endless stories of the future.

Make it a home again. Bring life and love back to its halls. The Gables has been far too empty for much too long. It should be full of laughter, raucous parties, heartfelt conversations. I want you to give yourself the home you always should’ve had. Build a family there. Fall into a soul-shaking love. Make the life of your dreams.

But to do that, you can’t be afraid to fall, my sweet girl. You always fall before you soar.

I’ll love you forever and always, my greatest treasure.

Love,

Your Harriet

A tear splashed onto the paper, and I quickly blotted it with the sleeve of my blouse. It was the only way I knew I was crying. I couldn’t feel the wetness on my cheeks or the pressure in my eyes.

I’d never felt more loved or more alone. I had no idea how my body could house the extreme intensity of both emotions. It was as if I were exploding out and collapsing in, all at the same time. My very being was at war with itself.

“I need you to say something.”

I couldn’t seem to form words. Didn’t want to move my eyes from the paper in front of me. The last beautifully curved letters I’d ever receive from Harriet.

A hand squeezed my shoulder. “You’re really starting to freak me out. Do I need to call Bell’s dad?”

I jolted at those words, quickly wiping my eyes and forcing my gaze up. “I’m fine. I don’t need a doctor.”

“You’re not fine. No one expects you to be fine. I just want to make sure you’re not going catatonic on me. Maybe you should have a donut, get a little sugar running through that bloodstream.”

I scowled at Crosby. “I told you, I don’t like donuts.”

Crosby’s lips twitched. “Harriet told me Wholly Donuts are your favorite.”