Topic: Correspondence

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-02-01 14:37 EST
Brad,

I?m finally settled. Rhy?din City isn?t as bad we thought growing up. It is a lot different than Yasuo, but of course that is to be expected. I couldn?t have been more reluctant to leave, but it?s been a year. It was time to move on. Now I?m glad I left. The people here have accepted me graciously into their community.

I?ve been finding work in various places around town, fixing roofs and what not. Nothing of a steady income yet, but the means I have tucked away will hold me over until I can get on my feet. My biggest contract right now and is what literally keeps me fed is working at a wildlife refuge. As of now, I?m doing maintenance on animal enclosures, but the owner is wanting me to blow glass figures to sell in her shop to raise money.

Which brings me to my good news. I think I?m staying here a while. The city suits me. I?m looking for a place where I can start blowing glass again. It will be nice to get back into that habit.

This is a short letter, obviously. I?m a little busy at the moment, but write back. Kiss Adalia for me and tell her I miss her. Maybe when I?m settled I can come for a visit or vice versa.

-Ethan

Bradley Kaiser

Date: 2008-02-03 23:31 EST
Ethan,

I'm glad to hear that you're out enjoying life again. I've been a little worried for you. Rhy'din City sounds exciting and we'll most definitely be visiting when we can find the time. I've been busy with work, mostly. Social life: still lacking, but you already knew that. :)

I'm not surprised you found work so quickly, you usually do. But a Wildlife Refuge? And what do you mean that it's keeping you fed? You'll have to tell me more about it in your next letter. Ada' wants to know what kinds of animals are there. I'm also glad to hear you're staying. While I'm sure the whole family would love for you to come back home, I know that this isn't the place for you. Hopefully you've found that place, Ethan. You deserve a chance to settle into a nice life.

Adalia is in a play. She says to tell you she's the best part in the whole play, even if she's just one of the ugly step-sisters. I even dabbled in a bit of sewing. Mom's hands have been acting up and Alicia is doing more missions work. No one was here to make Ada's costume, so Super Dad stepped up to the plate. Ethan, we need to give women more credit.. I don't know how they do it. :)

We all miss and love you. Ada says she's going to blow kisses into the envelope and you have to catch them all. She misses you, Ethan. Maybe send her a gift once you open up your shop. She hasn't been able to add to her collection in a while.

Much Love,
Bradley

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-02-06 14:12 EST
Brad,

Thanks. I know I can always count on you to worry for nothing. :cool:

I'm looking forward to settling in here for a while. You're right, I do deserve to have a nice life. I've worked hard and will continue to do so. Working keeps me busy. Occupied. You know me, idle hands won't do.

The Refuge where I'm working is quite large and I've also included a picture for Ada' from the owner, Maeve. Mr. Hichi the Monkey. I'm still getting used to seeing these animals. It's crazy, but very interesting. The owner agreed to have her Brothers feed me in return for working at the Refuge. I think I mentioned in the last letter that I'm also going to be making glass sculptures for their little gift shop. Maeve is a sweet woman. She got me on my feet here. I appreciate it more than anything.

And speaking of glass figurines, I think I may have found a place to use for a shop. The back has a great place to put an open furnace and is perfect for a glass working shop. I haven't seen any around, so I'm hoping to gain a lot of business from the townsfolk. I'm negotiating a price with the seller and hopefully I can begin renovations by the end of the month. I need a partner, though. You could always just move down here, Brad. I know that things are tight up there.

Tell Ada I'm sorry that I'm missing her play, but there is just no way I can make it up there in time with all the work I have right now. Kiss her for me and let her know that I'll be there in spirit. I miss my girl.

-Ethan

P.S. ubabomkhulu means uncle and chommies means friends.

The photo is a black and white of Mr. Hichi the mustached tamarin with his arms wide open on a tree branch. On the back Maeve wrote in the thick lines of her black charcoal pencil the following:

"Adalia -

Your ubabomkhulu Ethan is a legend!
Bonga for lending him out to us. Come
visit Mr. Hichi and his chommies at my
Refuge soon-times!

Rocking on,

Maeve"

Bradley Kaiser

Date: 2008-02-12 16:33 EST
Ethan,

You missed a great play. Ada remembered all of her lines and even helped a few of the others to remember theirs. She really was the best actress in the whole play, but I suppose I'm just biased. She showed me just how much she's growing up and I can't help but feel that it's going by too fast. Mom always said it would go quickly, but I didn't think she was serious. It sounds so cliche, but I feel like just yesterday she was in diapers. It's depressing. Before I know it there'll be boys knocking on my front door asking for her. She'll soon have questions that I can't answer, or, at least, that she'd want to ask a woman. I'm not ready for this. This is just some of what's been on my mind lately. I'm stressed, can't you tell?

The Refuge sounds very interesting. Adalia has already expressed interest in coming to visit so she can see the monkey's. That picture your friend gave her is now in a frame by her bed. She says it reminds her of you. Great, yeah? =)

Mom and Dad are doing fine. Mom has taken a turn for the worse, but don't worry. It's not like it was last year, so it's nothing to worry too much about. Dad's keeping a much closer on her now. They told me to tell you hello for them and to update you that Alicia is still doing missions. Last they heard she was in China, staying with a couple from the missions board. They expect her to make a trip back here sometime this summer. They hope you'll be around at some point, too, so we can have the whole family together.

The Ashbrooks left town about two weeks ago. The Prantera's a week before that. The current issues are still standing, and things here in town are growing oppressive. Most businesses are shut down and now the school, too. I'm hoping things get better. Ada needs her education. If they don't.... then maybe I will take you up on your offer, that is, if you were serious. It would be nice to get out of all this muck. I doubt Mom and Dad would leave, but I can't blame them. They've lived here their whole life and this social issue doesn't quite effect them as it does me.

Ada says she loves you. I've got to run now.. we're heading up to see Stephanie.

Much Love,
Bradley

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-02-19 08:37 EST
Alicia,

Happy Birthday! How nice it was for Mom to have us all within three weeks of each other; it certainly makes it easier for me to remember my siblings birthday's. It's hard to believe we're not together on your fortieth birthday; it's the first time I can remember our being apart on such an occasion. You know my love is with you wherever you go on your missions. Let me know what you did that was special. I hope someone over there baked you a cake!

Mom said she sent your birthday box in plenty of time, so when you read this, you should be able to write and tell me if what we picked was appropriate. Can you wear something like that in Africa? Mom said that all white is impractical, but you always looked so pretty in white. Ada said she liked the 'frillies', so you must too. :)

I miss the constant updates on your whereabouts. I moved, again, so I have to deal with second hand information from Bradley who gets it from Mom.

I just couldn't resist writing to you on your birthday since I couldn't be with you in person. Write back soon and catch me up on all the news. I don't know about you, but it feels to me as if you've been gone for three years, not three months.

Love,
Ethan

Alicia Kaiser

Date: 2008-02-21 23:41 EST
Dear Ethan,

I love the dress. It's beautiful and fits like a dream. Thank you so much! I've been saving a white ribbon, and now I have a dress with which to wear it. Perhaps a little impractical for the Bush, but appreciated nonetheless. Much nicer than anything I have now. It will be nice to have something flattering to wear to services.

It is odd to be apart, isn't it? You'd think with all the whining I did during our youth about having annoying brothers that I'd be happy for some space. You know I am not, however. I miss you all so very, very much. The congregation is a wonderful surrogate family, though. They threw a huge party for me. No cake, but we did have special treats that we don't get usually. There was a roaring bonfire, dancing, singing, and plenty of blessings. It couldn't have been a better birthday. Most of the small children fell asleep, but the festivities continued on into the wee hours of the morning. I can tell you that I certainly felt my age by the following night. I'm too old for such parties.

Mom wrote to me about your move, but didn't give many details. Write to me and tell me all about it! I visited Rhydin City once about twenty years ago, but I don't remember much. Just that it was very big. =]

There isn't much news from me. Things here are in a lull of sorts. The people are settling into the ways of the church and I fear that my time here may soon come to a close. Unless, of course, I stay on as a teacher. I have the opportunity to take a special studies class with the teacher here and get my teaching certificate. It means working more than I already am, but I should be done by mid-spring and be able to start teaching this coming fall. It's something I've been tossing around.

I can hardly believe it's true, Ethan--a teacher. I've been praying about it for a long, long while now. I think it was hard for the mission when I told them what I was considering, but after they took some time to get used to the idea, I could see they were going to support my decision wholeheartedly. I won't ask you to pray for me; I know how you feel about that. But keep me in your thoughts, at least. This is a big decision.

I wish I could tell you I'll see you soon, but with things possibly intensifying, I just won't be able to get away. I hope this finds you well.

Love Always,
Alicia

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-02-25 12:31 EST
Alicia,

I doubt there could ever be a time I needed my big sister more. I feel like such a spoiled child right now, not a man turning 28 in a week. I did something terrible. I hurt someone that I cared for.

My boss, Maeve Malone, is the sweetest woman I've ever met. She's so young and innocent. She's not like the girls I usually chase, Alicia. She's down to earth, funny, uncaring of what the world thinks of her. She's naive. I don't know how she managed to get my heart so wrapped around her, but she did. And that scared the hell out of me.

Other people were beginning to notice. At first I chuckled along and tried to gloss over the subject.. but they grew more persistent. I resorted to ignoring them. And then.. we had a Masquerade ball two nights ago. Maeve couldn't keep her eyes off me. And I only had eyes for her. I was able to let myself go for one wonderful night. We danced and even talked about the future. We talked about her taking me to Africa with her and I wanted to introduce the two of you. You'd love her.

But the thing is, I haven't made any kind of commitment to this woman. We've never discussed our feelings. What scared me the most was when I realized how much of my guard I'd let down. The last time I let a woman have control over my heart, she broke it into so many pieces that I couldn't even find them all. I thought I was doing fine.. not pinning myself to anyone, but it turns out that I had. And I had in the worst way--completely.

A friend called me out on it. Said that I was breaking a lot of women's hearts by not choosing someone to be with. Why is it that I have to choose? Can't I go on being single forever? I'd save myself much heartache that way. Anyways, this friend decided to kiss me to prove that I care for Maeve. I don't think she expected me to kiss her back. After that, I ignored her and found another friend to sit with for the rest of the night. Only Caitlin came back and slapped me, revealing that she, too, has feelings for me. I'm an ass and kissed my other friend, Chase, just to hurt Caitlin.

I know what you're already thinking. Believe me.. I'm beating myself up over it enough. But it gets worse. Maeve chose then to walk in. And I left with Chase right in front of her. Alicia, I've never seen Maeve look so hurt.

Chase spent the night and now here I am the next day writing this because I've realized now more than anything that I want Maeve. I had to go through all this to realize it and now.. it's gone. There's no way I could go back to the way things were between she and I. I'd probably only hurt her. I'm no worse than Li Chan. I'm just like her.

I suppose that's what I get. How did I get to this point? I just wanted a life here and now I have this. Broken friendships and heartache. All because I couldn't admit I wanted her.

How do I fix this? How do I move on when I want her all the more?

Much love,
Ethan

Alicia Kaiser

Date: 2008-03-05 00:27 EST
Ethan,

I think by now our brother should be in your company. Forgive me, but I didn't know what else to do. Your letter suggested that you needed someone with you and I cannot be that person. If I could, I'd be there in an instant. You know that, Ethan. Now that you have Bradley there for advice, I'll try to give you some of my own.

I have never gone on date. I've never been in love. I don't even think anyone has been in love with me. There is no way I can claim to know the workings of the heart, but I do know that what you're describing for this Maeve is deep. Maybe not love, but you do care for her. I don't doubt that. What you can't seem to tack down is how you feel for others.

First of all, don't be frightened of your feelings. Yes, you've been burned, and badly at that, but you mustn't allow the past to govern your future. I can only wish to feel the things that you do when you're around this woman. You need to learn to let go. That doesn't necessarily mean to choose one person. No one has a right to force that on you. But you have to let go of your past. The more you cling to it, the more your present situations will be molded like it.

If what you want is Ms. Malone, then that is what you should pursue. Don't play games. From my understanding, women don't care for them at all. If you don't want to be like Li, then change. This isn't like you, little brother. I know you have a cocky attitude sometimes, but breaking hearts and being cruel are not characteristics of you.

I guess I never was one for chastisement. You always did get away with merely soft words from me. I think now, because you've obviously beaten yourself up over this enough, is not the time for harsh words of reprimand. My letter is for guidance. Don't give up on what you want. We all make mistakes. What sets us apart from all the other fools of this world is learning from them. Learn from this mistake, Ethan. Pursue what it is that your heart desires. If it is a life without a woman, then turn in that directing. If you desire a life with Ms. Malone, then pursue her wholeheartedly. I'm a firm believer that love only happens once. Think hard on your decision. A woman's heart is no toy.

Only you can fix this. I hope I helped, even if just a little. Write back soon.

Missing you,
Alicia

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-03-14 18:01 EST
Alicia,

It's been almost three weeks since the biggest mistake of my life. Not much has changed, other than the fact that half the town hates me. Alright, so maybe that's stretching it a bit, but it's tiresome.

I've been threatened and nearly beaten several times because of what I'd done. One of Maeve's close friends threw a ceramic mug at my head and gave me a concussion. I've felt worse before, but it hurt for days. I've gotten yelled at, oh, and spit on. Can't forget that one. These people.. they're so meddlesome. I guess I deserve my medicine, but sometimes it's a bit much. I struggle with wanting to leave. I think the only thing keeping me here is Bradley and Ada. But that's why you sent them, isn't it? You always could read me like a book, even from another world.

I take life day by day. I've apologized to everyone I hurt personally. I work harder than I've ever worked--it's the only thing I can do to keep my mind occupied. Maeve knows that I made a mistake. I even went so far as to tell her that I wanted her. I think that made her more angry, but I'm almost positive I saw something in her eyes other than anger when I told her. Something that I can't put my finger on. It gives me hope. One of these days she and I will get back to where we were before. Hopefully. I'm trying my best to win her back, but some people think it isn't enough.

I'm still friends with Chase, the girl I slept with. In fact, our friendship has never been stronger. I feel something incredible for this woman, but it's different from what I feel for Maeve. Both emotions are strong, but I feel drawn to Maeve. I can't just ignore that. I can't just ignore Chase, either. She's the only one I don't have to fear judgment from. If that makes any sense to you..

I think right now I'm just going through the motions. I'm busy and I don't have time to sit and think of how I feel. The most I can feel right now is nothing. Even around Maeve, its just a more intense numbness, like when you fall asleep on your arm and you wake up feeling like there are pins and needles pricking you. It hurts, but it's 'numb'. I don't know what I'm rambling on about. My mind is full of things to say and no way to say them.

Write back. Tell me something good. I need to hear good news right now. My life has none to write about.

-Ethan

Alicia Kaiser

Date: 2008-03-31 19:01 EST
Ethan,

First off, I will say that I'm glad things are beginning to straighten out for you. My little brother deserves a good hand in life. Just remember from now on to play your cards right.

But good news, you ask? I suppose the most exciting would be that my dreams of becoming a teacher will in fact come true. Just not in the order that I had expected. The missions board has contacted me to say they're sending a permanent minister. Which means that my time in Nigeria is finished. I've been here for several years and it saddens me to go, but they've already supplied me with a replacement location. I'm going to New York until the end of the summer to work on my degree. After that, my options will be limitless. The board promises to let me go anywhere I choose--even back to Nigeria if I wanted. I'll be sad to leave the people I've grown to love as family, but it will be good to earn this teaching certificate.

In other news, planting has begun in the fields. We were able to get a good bargain on grain, so the harvest should be plentiful. Most of their time is taken up with the planting, but the people do continue to shower me with blessings of food and company. The people are making ready for their new minister and are preparing for my departure. There have been many tears, but I hold myself steadfast in the knowledge that I will one day return to these people, if only for a visit.

I was thinking that maybe I will make a trip home before I head to New York. See Mom and Dad before it gets too hot in Pembley. Maybe you, Bradley and Ada could come visit, too? I've missed you all dearly and would love a chance to have the whole family back together. I know Mom would like it. She worries that we'll all go our seperate ways and never come see her again. I know you dislike coming home for obvious reasons, but don't let that keep you away. Not this time.

I miss you very much, little brother. Until we next see each other,

Alicia

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-04-16 18:55 EST
Alicia,

It was great to hear that you're going to be getting your degree. We're all very happy and I'm sure that you'll make a wonderful teacher. What is it that you're wanting to teach? You should send us pictures of you in Nigeria with your congregation before you leave--we haven't received pictures in quite some time. Have you decided if you're going to return after your schooling? You've been there so long, I thought you'd end up living there forever.

Bradley, Adalia and I all look forward to seeing you again. We hope that you do choose to visit at the end of spring, we've missed you dearly. Do mom and Dad know you're coming home? They very rarely take the time to call and you know how mom's hands are when she tries to write letters. I don't quite know what's going on in Pembley, but I'll try to give Dad a call sometime this week. You can be sure that I will do my best to visit Pembley when you do, issues there couldn't keep me from seeing my sister.

There isn't much news on this side the pen. Had a bit of a run-in with a friend's boyfriend. Took a fist to me and bruised some ribs and cracked my jaw. It was rather painful at first, but I'm getting better. The bruising is still evident, but the swelling as gone down considerably. I honestly couldn't tell you for sure what prompted this man to attack me. I know he was upset with me a while back because of what I did with Chase, but can he really hold a grudge that long that didn't even effect him? I don't even think the man is friends with Maeve! All I know is that I got tired of his dirty looks and I flipped him the bird. Then he broke my face.

On a more lighter note, the shop is coming along nicely. We opened almost 2 weeks ago and have been getting a lot of business. Four of us work here: Bradley, Caitlin, Ryan and me. Caitlin is our photographer--she takes pictures of every piece we create and puts it into a portfolio. She also runs the counter and handles the customers while the rest of us are working. Ryan is my apprentice. I've become friends with the boy's mother. A while back I did a land survey for a man named Alain. While completing that job, I got to know this single mother of four. She told me about her eldest and she said she was having some trouble with him. I offered to take him on as an apprentice. So far so good, but I'm beginning to see a little attitude. I just hope that I can help him straighten out his life. His mom needs help, not extra strife.

I got a cat. Maeve named her Lola and it appears as though she's going to have kittens. Here I thought she was just fat. Guess I was wrong. She's a sweet thing, though, and keeps me company now that Bradley and Adalia have moved into the apartment above the shop.

Speaking of Maeve, things are going well. Very well. I'll not bore you with the details.. we're both painfully awkward around each other, but in a good way.

I have to be off now. Heading over to the refuge so Maeve can take a look at Lola to see if she can give me an estimate on when she'll have the kittens. Love you very much and can't wait to see you again.

-Ethan

Caitlin Rhovnik

Date: 2008-05-01 22:50 EST
"Ethan,

I'm sorry I haven't seen you in quite sometime. Last week my brother arrived unexpectedly from Colorado on a mission to bring me home. My mother has learned of my relationship with Aaric and is trying to force us apart. I snuck back to Rhy'din long enough to gather my belongings and say goodbye to Aaric. He and I are going to be secretly continuing our relationship through letters until I can return. My mother has frozen my assets and funds, which are not truely mine for another year. By that time she is certain I will have long forgotten about Aaric and moved on to college and hopefully be dating a Doctor or a Lawyer. I am so sorry if all of this leaves you in a pickle with the shop. I will do my best to return as soon as I can, but I cannot give you a time. If you wish to write me, I have rented a post office box. The address is as follows: Ms. Caitlin Sinead Keavy: P.O. Box 5717, Denver Colorado. Please do write if you have time. If you see Aaric, please be a friend, I am sure he could use one. I love you both very much. Thank you for being such a great friend to me.

Always,

Caitie"

She cringed writing that name, but it had to be done, it was Ethan.

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-05-02 12:09 EST
Caitie,

I was beginning to wonder what happened to you. At first I thought you'd just forgotten to come into work and then I started to worry. I never saw you around town.. but I'm glad to hear you're OK at least. Ada will miss you while you're gone, but don't worry. Ryan, Brad and I will all get along fine.

I'm sorry your mother has interjected herself into your life like this. I'm not sure how I could help, but if I can, just let me know. You know you're like a sister to me and I'd do anything to make life smoother for you. I will, however, keep my eye out for Aaric. I've never actually talked to the guy, but I'll do my best to befriend him while you're gone. Everyone says I need more male friends anyways.

Come back to us soon, Catie. We all miss you. Keep in touch!

Love,
Ethan

Caitlin Rhovnik

Date: 2008-05-02 14:13 EST
"Ethan,

Thank you for writing back. I'm going back and forth between Rhy'din for a few days. My mother found out about my sneaking out to come back and say goodbye to Aaric and she threw me out. When I got home most of my stuff was in bags and waiting in the foyer for me. I'm going between here and there just so I can try to get some things taken care of.

My Father of course wants me home, but he understands, however, at this point he is not willing to unfreeze my trust funds, Mother has convinced him I'll do something stupid with the money. I am responisble. I'm the most responsible nineteen year old I've ever met. My birthday is coming up on the 24th of May, it will be my first one away from home. I'm really scared.

I've spent the last year traveling the world, but I always knew I could go home. Now, I am not welcome there, all because I've fallen for the wrong man. Who is to say what is wrong or right? Isn't that something only my heart can decide?

I'm so confused. I've never been "poor" before and while I know money doesn't bring happiness but , I am more limited in what I can do. I only have enough money to stay at the Inn for a short while and now I can't help Aaric's families farm like I had wanted. Maybe in time. I'm not ready to move in with Aaric, I'm afraid that we will do things I am not ready for. I don't know, I guess I'll just have to pick up another job or something.

Anyway, you will probably see me around town now, but feel free to leave me letters at the Inn, I'll probably get to check my mail there more than back here in at my p.o. box now. By the way, I met Aaric's brother, Collyn last night. I don't think I trust him. He scared me a bit, although I know I am easily frightened, however, I just.. I didn't like the way he looked at me. I don't think Aaric would have liked it either. I'm probably needlessly worrying. Well, that about covers it.

I love you E, thanks for always being there for me from the start.

Caitie."

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-05-02 14:32 EST
He'd been surprised to get a letter back so quickly, but hey, this was Rhydin. Nothing should surprise him anymore. So, doing as she asked, Ethan sent his reply back to Caitlin at the Red Dragon address instead of the address in CO.


Caitie,

First off, glad to hear back so soon. I had just gotten done telling Brad and Ada that you wouldn't be around for a while. Ada was sad and I could tell that Brad was less than thrilled you wouldn't be here. He's started to view you as family, too! But I'll go let them know that we'll see you from time to time until you're back on your feet here.

I can't believe your family would throw you out of the house for being in love, but... what can you do? You've got to follow your heart. It's hard when you don't see eye to eye with your parents, but there comes a time in every kids life when he or she has to branch out. Granted, you weren't able to branch out of your own volition, but hey, look on the bright side! You'll be able to live your own life now.. and give you parents some time. They'll come around. I promise.

Now, about your monetary issues. I've got an extra room here at my apartment that you could use if you wanted. You wouldn't need to pay me anything and you could stay as long as you like. It's a bit lonely here. I've only got Lola to keep me company and even she spends most of her time now under the dresser with the kittens. If you decide to take me up on the offer, I've got to prepare you for what people will say. Even though, obviously, we're not doing anything wrong, people will say things. I don't want them to bother you. I'm your big brother and I'm trying to help. Also, it might be courteous to ask Aaric in advance. I doubt Maeve will mind. There'd be no rules, really, but all I'd ask is that Aaric doesn't spend the night. I realize you two aren't like that with each other.. but still. I don't want to have to hear it from another room. =)

Hope to see you soon. The shop hasn't been the same without you, Belle.

Love,
Ethan

P.S. - Whoever this Collyn guy is.. you just point him out. Let me know if he ever crosses the line, alright? I'm here for you. I'll let him know his place.

Caitlin Rhovnik

Date: 2008-05-04 13:37 EST
"Ethan!

Sorry it has taken me a few days to write you back, I finally checked my messages at the Inn this morning. Things are going a little better than I expected. I am still totally freaked out by my decision to give up everything and come back to Rhy'din, for a man nonetheless, but I am so happy I did it.

I saw Aaric on Friday night and he didn't even believe his eyes when he saw me, I think he was afraid to really believe I was back and for good. We talked for a while and he stayed over, but nothing happened, he just sits in the chair in my room and talks to me until I fall asleep, always a perfect gentleman.

Last night he escorted me to the Beltane festivities, I cannot believe how much fun we had. We didn't stay long, but I did get to meet Mr. Marc Franco, who was a lovely man. I even saw the infamous Trashtastic- Jade! I cannot get over how beautiful she is, even up close, she is still probably one of the most beautiful women I have ever seen. I told Aaric, now I udnerstand why she has so many problems with men. I wouldn't know what to do with myself if I had looks like that and she was very very nice.

After meeting Mr. Franco, we decided to head out and get some food in the market. We had hot dogs from a vendor and shared a beer, it was the best date ever. I know, I know, hot dogs and cheap beer? But it was great. There are so many things in life I haven't experienced and Aaric is helping me to do them all, to really become the woman I want to be, not the demure and shy woman I was sculped by my Mother to be. I danced in a fountain, Ethan! It was so much fun. Aaric said I keep surprising him everytime he is with me and that he loves to see this side of me, this happy, outgoing side. Of course he loved me before, but he says it is hard to explain, but he really enjoys seeing me like this. I know he means that in a good way.

I talked to him about moving in with you and he said of course it was fine. That if I trust you, he trusts you. So it looks like we are going to be roomies, E! How much fun will that be?! And not lonely at all. I can play with your niece more too, she is so adorable. I cannot wait to get back to work either, I need something to do with myself. I have some ideas for marketing the shop as well. Maybe some nice business cards, I'll get into that more when I see your in person. Anyway, thank you again Ethan, I don't know what I would do without you. I was scared to live life without my family, but I am slowly realizing, I do have a family here. You, Bradley, Ada and Aaric are my family now. I'm happier than I have ever been. I owe you all the world.

And stop calling me Belle, it makes me blush, ya big stupid oof!

-She giggled writing that part, she loved to tease Ethan.-

~Always,
Caitie Belle "

Caitlin Rhovnik

Date: 2008-05-20 12:43 EST
?Ethan,

This will be a short note. I just wanted to let you know that a lot has happened lately, but most importantly that I will no longer be residing in Rhy?din, atleast for quite sometime. My stepbrother came back to find me and he explained that my father has been ill, after going to the Doctor; it has been found that he has cancer. The cancer has spread, however they hope to stop it, but the treatments will take time. I had to be with my father during this time, as you can understand. I am so sorry to leave once again. I barely got to say goodbye to Aaric, who I have broken up with because I just can?t handle a relationship right now and it wouldn?t be fair to ask him to wait, especially since I do not know if I will return. I love you Ethan, thank you for everything. You can still contact me at the P.O. box I gave you before.

Much Love,

Caitie.?

Ethan Kaiser

Date: 2008-06-04 12:37 EST
Hello Caitie,

I'm so sorry that your father is ill. I know what you are going through, though. I had to watch my brothers wife slowly fade away with a similar disease--the same one that Adalia has. We can only hope that your father will pull through for the sake of his family. You will all be in my thoughts during your time of need. Let me know if there is anything you need. I'm always willing to lend a hand if it's something I can do.

Adalia has been asking about you. She was sad she couldn't show you Lola's new kittens or introduce you to her pixie friend. She misses you and I promised her I would tell you. Do you know when you'll be coming back? Things here around the shop are hectic without you, but I can't bring myself to hire someone else. Commissions are coming in everyday and it's difficult to juggle it all by ourselves. I have no patience for snappy customers. You were always so good at that.

I also wanted to say that I'm sorry about Aaric. I haven't seen him since you left, but then again, I haven't really been out much because of being so busy.

It's probably time for me to wrap this up. More work to do. Love you too, Caitie Belle.

-Ethan

Bradley Kaiser

Date: 2008-09-17 22:48 EST
Mom and Dad,

I should start by saying that I'm sorry it's taken me so long to write to you. I know Ethan's been in touch and went to visit you over the summer. I would have liked to come with him, but he didn't really give me much notice and it's hard to just close the shop when business is like this. Our profit has skyrocketed and the commissions are pouring in. Just a few weeks ago the owner of one of the biggest Inn's commissioned us for a large order of glasses. Ethan's apprentice is really starting to get the hang of things, so even though we're one person short (Caitlin left us, I'm not sure Ethan told you), we seem to be doing fine. It's all good, though, I didn't much care for Catie to be honest. She seemed nice and I know Ethan had a soft spot for her.. but there was something off about her. I'm hoping to find a new counter person soon to ease the load off of everyone else.

On a personal level, I'd say I'm doing alright. I've met a few people, one of whom is a doctor. She seems to think she can diagnose Adalia's illness and there's something about her that makes me want to give her a chance. She's asked for Stephanie's medical records and my journals. I was wondering if you could send those to me as soon as possible, they may be able to help her pinpoint the disease. I'm sure we'll see...but there isn't much time left.

I don't want to alarm you, but Ada has taken a turn for the worse. Stephanie only lasted 4 months once she got to this point. I'm clueless as to what it will mean for Adalia. She could last longer--she's a real trooper--or it could take her sooner. My hope is that she'll make it to Christmas. I'm bringing her home for the holidays and we'll be staying there until she's gone. It's what she wants and I'm willing to give her anything in her last days.

I've got to cut this short...work is calling. Ethan's down in the garage alone right now because Ryan's out running a shipment to a customer. Ada sends her love and says she misses you both. I'll try to write more frequently now to keep you updated.

Your son,
Bradley

Bradley Kaiser

Date: 2010-09-10 18:51 EST
Alicia,

You know, I've just sat here staring at this piece of paper for about 20 minutes. I don't even know where to begin. I guess I'll start by apologizing for ignoring your letters over the past year. I know you just care about how I'm doing, but I wasn't really in a place to talk to anyone.

I'm sure Ethan's kept you updated, but I left rehab a few months ago and came back to work. It was hard adjusting to real life again, but I gained some great friends. They really helped me through the transition. But then something happened. Someone, to be more precise. Her name is Shane and she plays more instruments than anyone I know. I think that's what drew me to her to begin with. Everything happened so fast. This girl really completes me, 'Leesh. I don't even know how to fully explain it. I haven't felt like this in a long time. I was content until the other night. We had been drinking, and I guess things just got out of hand. We got married, Alicia.

I haven't told mom and dad yet, so don't mention anything to them if you talk to them. I don't know what to do. We decided to give it a shot. Dissolving the marriage wasn't the answer, that much I know. But I'm feeling so guilty. I had just gotten used to caring about someone other than Steph, but marriage? I feel like I'm disgracing her memory. I've never loved another woman in my life. What am I supposed to do?

-Brad

Alicia Kaiser

Date: 2010-09-12 13:55 EST
Dear Bradley,

It is so wonderful to finally hear from you. You've always been in my prayers and never far from my thoughts. Know that I don't hold your silence against you--we all handle our problems in different ways. Just be aware that the next time you ignore me for longer than a a month I'm going to make a surprise visit. I think that's the one thing I regret not doing during your recovery. I should have come to be with you. I'm sorry I wasn't there for you, Brother. But from what I can tell, you've been doing well without me. I suppose it's time for me to come to terms with the fact that you're a grown man with a life of his own. I can't always solve your problems, much as I'd like to do so.

But I can give you advice and share my thoughts. You should know that loving another woman isn't wrong. I think the speed at which your relationship had progressed is alarming, marriage is a big step that requires a lot of thought. But I know you're an upright man, and now there is no going back. All that is left is to move forward and build a new life for yourself.

To even had caught your eye, Shane must be quite a woman and I look forward to meeting her someday. It sounds, to me, like you're already well on your way to loving this girl. From what I've heard, Love comes in many shapes and sizes. There isn't a set way it is supposed to happen and can take mere moments or years to grow.

You shouldn't feel guilty. You know as much as I that Stephanie would have wanted you to make a new life for yourself. I'm sure she probably even told you as much in private. I can't imagine her wanting you to be alone for the rest of your life. It is true that you will never love Shane like you loved Stephanie, but in the same breath...you could never love Stephanie in the way you'll love Shane. They are two different people and therefore your love for them will be different.

How does Shane feel about Stephanie? Have you two talked about her or Adalia in depth? If she is deserving of your love, she won't feel threatened by a memory. Don't be afraid to embrace your future, Bradley. Embracing your future does not mean you must let go of your past.

Write to me soon, and try to include a picture of Shane so I have something to put on my wall of my new Sister-in-law. I am very happy for you, Bradley.

Love,
Alicia