Brooke hurried to the manhole cover by the empty warehouse to see two things: if her card had been picked up and if another card took its place. She grew more fearful the closer she got. Michael had been very busy this semester and rarely got word to her at their favorite drop site. Plus, there was always the worry about the coeds in his classes. She knew how sophisticated they must seem compared to her.

She rounded the corner and saw an envelope lying raised on one end. Strange, she thought. Why isn’t it flat? As she got nearer, she spied a small box under the corner of the envelope, the reason for its tilt. She stooped to pick up the envelope and box. Could she wait? She didn’t want to, but the light was poor, so she turned and began the trek back as quickly as she came.

Out of breath, she entered the chamber she shared with Jamie and sat on her bed next to the lantern. Which to open first, the letter or the gift? She opted for the letter. She ran her finger under the flap near the top, and tore it open. She pulled out a card.

On the front was a frilly lace heart with the words “Happy Valentine’s Day.” She opened the card.

Brooke,

This semester began with a bang, and before I knew it, I had three papers to write and four books to read. Fortunately, Father had us read one of them already. No matter how busy I get, I always think of you every day, often just before falling asleep so I know that I will have nice dreams and a good morning.

I look forward to having you on campus next year. Catherine will help you get squared away for the academic tests you need. I’ll help you get oriented to college, and then we’ll be able to be a couple, with real dates, you and I.

I know you worry about all the girls I meet Above. But have no fears, none measure up to you – to your heart as big as the Mirror Pool, and your mind as sharp as one of William’s knives.

I miss you. I got you something to think of me as you study.

Love,

Michael

She clutched the card to her heart. Soon! Soon, she, too, would be a student and they could be together like normal college students. He still loved her! She set down the card and reached for the package. She tore off the covering paper, opened the box. It was a small glass bird in the shape of a phoenix. He was always saying that she had such a future before her, that she would rise from Below like a phoenix. He would tease her that he only hoped she would include him in her flight plans.

She put the small glass phoenix right by her bed on the crate that served as a bedside table. She would look at it the last thing before falling asleep, and the first thing upon awakening. He believed in her and he loved her; two things that meant the world to her, and why she loved him so much.

A happy Valentine’s Day indeed!