response to someone she didn't know? It wasn't like her. As a rule follower, Emma maintained perfect organization in her world while simultaneously steering clear of

nce in this manner anymore. Current communication methods use texts, emails, and voice notes to establish a connection but in past times people

which lay on her desk. She responded with politeness but also displayed reservation in her tone. Regardless of Oliver's heartfelt tone, the le

write further, but cautiousness toward border violations stopped her. Could this email message ru

turned back three times, her heart racing with each step. But something about Oliver's word

pe as if it were a fragile piece of her own heart. When it was her turn, she hes

e," she said, her voi

equest, and handed her a receipt.

ol over what happened next. Maybe Oliver would ignore it, or maybe he'd write back. Or maybe he'd be f

Emma knew tha

heartbeat intensified. But there was nothing. No reply. She told herself everything was fine and suggested that Oliver probably wouldn't react t

peration filled his words because of what he had lost. Why didn't Oliver choose Maya as h

ar-crossed couple faced obstacles they couldn't overcome. Oliver spent his time lost in memories about their relationship after Ma

s part of their regular virtual connect for writing sessions. When tonight's meeting used "The Power of Letters" as its subject, Emma

exchange ideas with other authors. The host gave today's presentation, and th

me than texts or emails. Before you send your message, you must choose your words carefully as well as write it out by hand before then sending it with

cted her so deeply. It wasn't just what he'd written-it was the act of writing itself. The

her decision to write back? It felt too personal, too raw. Instead, she kept her comments gene

met but feel connected to." Emma almost laughed at the coincidence. She'd alrea

inced herself that Oliver wouldn't respond when she opened her

riting was the same-neat but slight

ling as she opened the letter. The f

Stra

t alone respond. I don't know who you are, but I want to thank you for taking the time to write back. You

was possible to feel that way again. Losing her was like losing a part of myself. W

go-not of the memories, but of the pain. Maybe it's time to open m

or helping

ur

iv

wildly between relief, joy, and something she couldn't

already racing with ideas for her next reply. This w

eginning of