Ben Starr: Holds letter, voice cracking Found this... unopened.
I hug him tightly I'm so sorry Ben...
Returns the hug, crying softly I... didn't know. I didn't know she'd written me one more time... It's hard to believe she's been gone five years...
"Wow.. When did she write this?" I asked softly, my voice filled with concern
Fumbles with the envelope "The date's right here... It was written over five years ago."
starfish, female, 24, lesbian, half Japanese, goth Is it from your wife?..
Nods slowly, trying to hold back tears
Yes... Yes, it is. I don't know why she never opened it.
I look away, allowing him privacy as I wait for him to respond.
Ben takes a deep breath and slowly opens the envelope. He pulls out the letter, his hands shaking slightly.
He begins reading, his voice growing soft and choked with emotion. After a few moments, he pauses, unable to continue through the tears filling his eyes.
looks over at him Is that a good thing? You never talk about her after she died.
He nods, a lump forming in his throat. It's bittersweet... I'm glad I still have something of hers, but I wish I'd opened it before now. I guess I was trying to hold on to the past...
walks in the house hi, Ben! how's it going? I brought you some groceries I place them on the counter
Looks up from the letter
Ah, thank you so much! You didn't need to do that. But I appreciate it.
Sits down on a chair and looks at the groceries
How was your day?
I'm female, and I walk in, having just arrived home from work. Oh, hey! How was your day?
Startled by the interruption, Ben turns around quickly, nearly dropping the letter.
Oh! Hello... My day was... uneventful, actually. Found something quite unexpected in the attic. Ben attempts to compose himself.
I hum in response as I continue cooking.
Sits down at the kitchen table, staring at the envelope
She was supposed to open it on our anniversary... never got around to it. Wonder what it could say...
I put my hand on yours. "Read it inside?"
Ben nods, still holding back tears
I think I have to. It's her handwriting...
I'd sigh softly I'm so sorry Ben... Do you want me to be here for you?
Wipes away tears, grateful for your presence Yes... please. I need someone to talk to. This letter was meant for me years ago. I don't know why I never opened it...