Chapter Text
Mama,
I'm safe, I promise.
I'm sorry I couldn't come home. I found out I was being followed, and I couldn't risk bringing my life choices to you. I was injured, but I'm better now, completely healed; and I'm staying in a small eastern European town for the time being.
It's nice. I wake up every morning and go for a run around the town. Then, I get my groceries, stop at the local library, and read until I'm hungry. I spend the rest of my day usually doing something with my hands. I enjoy the routine, the simple life. I wonder if maybe one day I can have it despite my actions that led me here.
I ran into Charles again a few months ago. Despite our relationship having fallen apart the last time we spoke, we were amicable given the strenuous circumstances. I often think, if he and I would have met at different points in our lives, would we have been more agreeable to each others' beliefs? Maybe only if we were older and more tolerable, less stubborn.
Also, I met someone while healing and resting here. Her name is Magda. She lost her family in the camps, and she settled out here to live peacefully. She brings out a more youthful side of myself, one I thought I no longer had at twenty-five; and I find myself smiling each day just being around her. I had plans to leave here as soon as I got better, but her heart and mind keep me. I'm afraid of the day when I'll have to leave, but I think she'll understand.
I've said it many times before, but use some of this money for yourself — don't just save it all. And even though I know you do, please don't worry about me.
All my love,
Erik
*****
Mama,
I had to leave the town I was staying in. Something came up, and I was needed overseas again.
I left a note for Magda — I couldn't bear to wake her. I promised her I'd be back one day, but seeing as coming home to you has been getting harder and harder, I wonder if I'll even be able to keep that promise.
Please take the rest of the money I had. If you have enough saved with this, maybe you can buy that house in the town over, the one you talked about last time I came home. I think the backyard would fit a nice garden.
I love you, Mama.
Erik
*****
Mama,
I'm safe again.
I made it back to Magda. I wanted to spend a few days with her before coming back home to you, but my plan has changed. Actually, all my plans have changed.
Mama, Magda's pregnant, nearly seven months. She was at least a month pregnant when I left. Neither of us knew; but when she found out, she said she was happy she had at least a part of me to cherish, just in case I didn't come back to her. I don't quite know what I did to deserve her or her love.
I'm staying here until the baby is born. After that, I'm not sure what I'll do, but the thought of leaving… I don't know if I can.
She doesn't know if it's a boy or a girl. I'm hoping for a girl. Maybe she'll be the legacy I leave behind when I'm old and the dust settles.
When she's born and it's safe to travel, I can't wait to bring them home to meet you.
Thank you for everything, Mama.
Erik