“What letter?”
“The letter from your mom.”
I shrug. “No, have you?”
She shakes her head. “Where is yours? I think we should read them. Together.”
“I’d like that. I’ll go get it.”
“It’s here?”
“I put it in the safe with your jewelry.” I didn’t want the letter burning a hole in my pocket. I find the letter and then spot Jazzy in the living room with her envelope in her hand.
“Okay. Ready?” she asks.
“Not really. But I don’t think I ever will be.”
I tear the envelope open and unfold the paper. My mother’s neat cursive writing covers the page.
Dear Jacob,
I’m sorry for leaving you. Hopefully, you aren’t alone. My biggest fear was leaving and you still not finding your peace. I want you to be okay. I want you to forgive yourself for what happened when you were barely old enough to understand life.
You did understand love, though. That much I know. Jazzy is it for you, Jacob. I would have loved to be around to see you two finally reconnect. But if that never happens, then I hope you find someonewhom you can love. Even if it’s never the same as the connection you have with her. You shouldn’t be alone forever.
I know you’re probably wondering why I left Jazzy my jewelry. I wanted it to go to someone who would appreciate it, someone I loved like a daughter. And no matter what happened between you two, she was that to me. I didn’t tell you but I kept in touch with her. And I will tell you now… she has never been truly happy without you in her life.
Don’t take on too much responsibility. I know it’s a lot but don’t let business become your everything. I want you to live, Jacob. I want you to love, explore, and learn as much as you possibly can. We have such a short time on earth, so treasure it and treasure those you love.
I love you. You were my pride and joy, and there has never been a day I haven’t been proud of you.
Loving you from the heavens above,
Mom
Chapter Thirty-Five
My hands shake a little and tears stream down my cheeks as I read Mrs. Westmead’s words. I truly did love her. She was always so welcoming, made me feel as if I was a part of their family.
Dear Jasmine,
If you’re reading this, I’m sorry that my time has come to an end. But there are things I wanted to tell you that I couldn’t in person or over the phone.
First, I love you. Well, I did tell you that. But I need to make sure you know that I love you as if you were my own daughter. I will never forget the joy you brought into our home whenever you visited. You were a light, an angel I believe.
Your soft soul loves and forgives everyone. You care deeply and you’re loyal to a fault. All great qualities, and ones I had hoped to have in a daughter-in-law someday.
I really hoped you and Jacob would find your way back to each other, but I know my Jake is stubborn and I believe the first step in mending that relationship is going to have to come from you.
I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive him. You were both so young, and he was lost. He has been lost without you in his life.
Second, Jacob loves you. I know you might find that hard to believe, with how things ended between the two of you. Yes, he told me what he did. I’m sorry.I do know that boy loves you like he will never love anyone else.
Third, I’m leaving you my jewelry, because you might not be my daughter-in-law, but you are the closest thing I’ve ever had to a daughter. I hope you can find some pieces you love, something that reminds you of the friendship we had when you wear them.
I know whatever you decide to do, you will make the right choice for you, Jazzy. You are the smartest, most kindhearted woman I know. And it has been an absolute pleasure knowing and loving you.
Love always,