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Dear Augustus,
You are finally home. Finally. My heart would ring with joy if I didn’t know what it took to get you there. But you’re safe and so are our daughters, and that means the world to me.
Augustus, take it slow building your new life, and be patient with our girls as you all learn to live with one another again. You may be back at Two Willows, but the road home is a long one when you’ve been gone so many years.
Our daughters need tenderness, empathy and strength from you. They need knowledge of our lives together—a connection to their heritage. They need to see you happy, Augustus, and I hope you’ll search for and find your happiness.
You and I had a life worth celebrating. We shaped the land together, built a business together, brought up our family. I’d have given anything to extend my time with you, but I am grateful for all the sweet moments I did have.
I am grateful for my children, too. For every moment I got to hold them in my arms. For every accomplishment I witnessed—and for those I didn’t. My girls are my heart, split in five and still living on this earth. Cherish them, Augustus, and keep them close, even if it takes time for them to get over past hurts.
Your road back to me is a long one, too, and I hope you’ll be content to walk it slowly. Enjoy your life. I’m there with you even when you’re not aware of me. Ours is a love that endures. We both knew that from the start. Nothing can change that fact.
I love you, Augustus. Always and forever.
Oh, and you have one more (honorary) daughter to marry off. I’m sure you have a suitable man in mind.
You’re always in my heart,
Amelia