“I know how to change my appearance so I’m not easily recognized.”
“Good. That will help. Wait a few days, and I’ll see what I can do. I have a connection who might be able to get you new papers. I haven’t said anything until now because I thought you would stay until Johann’s return.”
“Alright,” I agree, “but only three days. And then I will need to leave.” For their sake as much as for mine. The longer I stay with them, the more dangerous it is for the pair. I cannot risk that after everything they’ve done for me.
Dr. Hubert pushes to his feet. “I have something for you.” He leaves the room and comes back carrying an envelope. “Johann asked me to give this to you if you left prior to his return.”
I take the envelope from Dr. Hubert. “Angelique” is written on the front in Johann’s handwriting. I would recognise it anywhere.
I trace over my name as if that’s all it will take to make Johann appear in front of me. His smile flashes in my thoughts, and I push down the heartache that deepens every day, even when I try so hard to ignore it.
“Thank you,” I tell Dr. Hubert. “I’ll read it after I wash the dishes.”
“Why don’t you go and read it now,” Rosita says. “It’s not as though there are many dishes. I can clean them myself.”
I fix a smile on my face, masking the nerves that churn in my belly. “Thank you.”
I go upstairs to the guest room, light the candle on the bedside table, and sit on the bed. My fingers trembling, I carefully open the envelope and remove the single sheet of paper.
I can do this.
I can be brave.
I can be strong.
I read the letter, my eyes misting with tears.
Dear Angelique.
You are asleep now, and I’m watching your slow rhythmic breaths. You have gone through so much in the past two days, but you’re still beautiful and strong.
I wish I didn’t have to leave you. If I could stay, I would. The desire to see and hold you again are what will keep me going during this war.
I promised you before you fell asleep that I will return for you. I have every intention of following through with my promise. But like I told you, I also want to make a difference in this war if I can. I want to continue what you set out to do. I want to make the world a better place for our child to grow up in.
I’m going to ask Dr. Hubert to give you this letter if you should leave prior to my return. If I haven’t returned, it’s because of one of several reasons. I pray neither side chooses to end my life because my alliances have changed and the rebels don’t believe me. I pray if I am not by your side, it’s because the rebels believe I can be of some use to them.
Eventually, this war will end. Remember what I told you about Maple Ridge, Oregon. One day soon, when the world is less chaotic, I hope to experience the beauty there my friend told me about. And I hope to be able to share it with you and our baby.
I love you, Angelique. Never stop believing that.
Until we meet again,
Johann
30
JESSICA
August, Present Day
Maple Ridge
I return to the office.No one seems to be following me, but I can’t shake the feeling I’m being stalked.
It’s just your imagination.
Or possibly the complex PTSD working overtime—combined with the reporters and protesters constantly tormenting me when I’m at home.
