I can’t believe it’s been so long since that fateful day, or that today is the anniversary of Adelaide’s death. So much has happened since then, and although I’m sure you’ve seen this already, I wanted to send you a clipping from the newspaper. He’s gone, Elise. After everything he did, after all he took from you, and from Harry and Peter, he’s finally gone. Your Harry was so brave, coming to testify and relive it all, but it was worth it. I still can’t believe they found him guilty and sentenced him to hang for his crimes; even all these months later, it’s still hard to believe that he’s taken his last breath. I’m in two minds about the punishment, because I would have preferred he rot for years in jail, but the fact they even caught him is miracle enough.

Speaking of Peter, I bet you were as surprised as I that he survived his ordeal. He testified before the court, as I’m sure Harry’s told you, so bravely despite all he’s been through. He’s still in some pain and has to walk with a stick, but the sweetest thing of all was seeing him with his girlfriend in London when we returned. Well, wife now, because we went to their wedding only last weekend, and it was the most romantic thing, seeing the way she looked at him. I’m so glad that he made it home, and that he had someone so loving waiting.

Peter spoke of Adelaide in his wedding speech, of the brave young woman who accompanied him to the Nazi camp to surrender, and he truly believes that she’s the only reason he survived. Without her there, he thinks they would have shot him on sight, and he said he’s eternally grateful for her kindness and bravery.

One day, I promise that we’ll come and see you, but for now please know that you are always in our thoughts. Oscar is old and grey now, but as happy as could be and sitting at my feet while I write to you, his chin on my toes, and I wonder if he ever thinks of his previous life in France. The sound of his little snore takes me back to being in your home, seeing him nestled on Adelaide’s lap. I will never forget your kind, sweet, loving sister for as long as I live.

I wish you love and happiness, Elise. You gave me the chance to live, you saved me when you could have so easily turned me away, and you saved Jack, too. For that, we will always be grateful. In fact, Jack’s sitting beside me now, telling me to send you his love. We will see you again soon, I promise.