Chapter 13 - Chloe's Letter
Two years later, Chloe wrote from prison.
I almost didn't open it.
Then I remembered Grandpa's instruction.
Choose.
Not react.
I opened it.
Isabella,
I spent most of my life believing Mom's version of you.
Ungrateful.
Manipulative.
Jealous.
Then I realized something humiliating.
I never actually knew you.
I only knew the person I needed you to be so I could feel entitled to what you had.
I stopped.
That was painfully accurate.
She continued.
I helped Marcus because he promised me money.
There is no noble explanation.
I knew enough to know he was dangerous.
I chose myself.
I am sorry.
No request.
No demand.
I wrote back.
Three sentences.
I received your letter.
I appreciate that you told the truth without asking me to erase the consequences.
I hope you use your future differently.
That was all.
Sometimes forgiveness is not reunion.
May you like
Sometimes it is releasing yourself from carrying active hatred.
I could wish Chloe better without giving her a key to my house.
