A LETTER HOME

by Jessica Rupe

Part One

Dear Livvie and Luke,

Good news! I’m coming home soon! The judge has decided after two years I’ve served my full sentence with no need for probation or parole. All I have to say is it’s about time. Mrs Davis had no objections when we appeared before the judge. I regret killing Joey in that hit and run, but I have only myself to blame. I was drunk, there’s no other excuse. I am glad Mrs. Davis has the closure she was looking for, though.

God, why does the universe conspire to keep lovers apart? I miss you both so much and can’t wait to see you guys again! Over these past two years I’ve been remembering our anniversary celebration before all of this mess happened. Our anniversary is coming up again soon. Let’s celebrate it the same way. Maybe we can give Luke a brother or sister? That would be the best gift ever, to be in the loving arms of my wife and son, with another little Evans on the way. I wish I could have been there for Luke’s first words, his first steps, his birthdays. But you tell him I’ll be there for everything from now on!

I love you, and I’ll see you soon!
Kanin

* * *

Part Two

Dear Kanin,

I’m so excited you’re coming home soon! That’s like a dream, no, better! I know Luke is looking forward to his daddy coming home!

Our anniversary two years ago is one of my best memories. I still have those lilac petals from that night. I dried them to make potpourri. Rebecca used some of the petals to make some fragrance oil, so I can refresh the scent any time it runs low. Smelling it reminds me of that night. And something special did come out of it, but I didn’t get a chance to tell you because of everything that happened. I did conceive that night. Your daughter is your double. Her name is Josephine. I named her after you, since your middle name is Joseph. Josephine is now 15 months old. Luke loves being a big brother, and everyone dotes on Josephine in the nursery!

I didn’t tell you all this time because I wanted to keep her a surprise for when you came home. When everyone wrote letters to you, I asked them to keep Josephine a secret so I could surprise you. Josephine is very excited to meet her daddy! And I would love to give them another sibling on our anniversary, that would be the best gift for both of us.

I’m looking forward to our reunion. I love you,my husband. Luke, Josephine, and I will see you very soon.

Livvie

* * *

Part 3 – Reunited

Kanin and Catherine pulled up to her apartment building on Central Park West. As Catherine parked her car in the parking garage, she looked at Kanin. She had just picked him up from the jail. Kanin had a huge smile on his face. He was looking forward to reuniting with Olivia and Luke, as well as meeting his 15 month old daughter, Josephine. It was a beautiful and impossible thing, that he had given his bride, his Livvie, such an amazing parting gift before turning himself in. And today was their anniversary, so it was one gift on top of another!

As they walked down the tunnel from Catherine’s basement, it was unusually quiet. No one came to greet them. Kanin was curious at this. Now it was Catherine’s turn to smile! She and Vincent had planned a surprise Welcome Home party for Kanin, which was being held in Father’s library. William had made a cake and brewed some of his special cider, along with mixing up some non alcoholic punch for the children to drink. Everyone had made cards or small gifts to welcome Kanin home. But the biggest gift for Kanin was being reunited with his family.

As they walked into the library, everyone popped out with shouts of “Surprise! Welcome home, Kanin!” Tears of happiness filled Kanin’s eyes, but none more so than when Vincent escorted Olivia into the library, her holding Luke’s hand, him carrying little Josephine in his arms. Kanin rushed into Olivia’s arms, embracing her tightly to the sound of everyone’s applause. The party was a massive success. After the refreshments had been served, the gifts were presented. Kanin and Olivia were overwhelmed at the outpouring of love from their tunnel family. No doubt it was good to be home!

As Kanin and Olivia were about to head back to their chamber after the party, Mary and Sarah offered to care for Luke and Josephine so Kanin and Olivia could enjoy some “alone time”. Their evening together was romantic indeed, and resulted in Olivia becoming pregnant with their third child! Nine months later, the entire Evans clan joined their tunnel family at their younger son’s naming ceremony, naming him Benjamin Evans.