Chapter Letter
Letter
My Azizi,
I hope this letter finds you well, my darling.
While this is by far not the longest we have gone without seeing each other—such is the life of those blessed with eternity; it seems to move so quickly—it is the longest we’ve done so in silence.
I did promise our dear Jonas that I would give you space, but you must forgive this old man his worry.
The gift of a child is a constant weight on a father’s mind, and I find myself sharing in the despair when my children are suffering.
So I shall swear not to prod you about the incident which brought upon this silence, and instead only inquire this: How are you, my dear?
Have you been doing well? Jonas has told me of your new chateau on the French coast. He says the change in scenery has been helping you immensely, as well as, perhaps, the company you’ve found there.
I’m rather intrigued to hear about this young man who has enamored you so, as well as the spirit haunting you both.
Jonas says you’ve not allowed him to meet either, though you’ve told him stories in your correspondence.
We’re all quite overjoyed to hear you’ve found someone to hold your interest. I fear I must warn you, our Ana-Lucia is rather furious you’ve not told her a lick of it.
I need not remind you how curious a thing your little sister is, so if you find yourself buried beneath an influx of letters and demands for answers, do be sure to blame your brother for the inconvenience.
Have you been painting again? I’ve not seen any recent works of yours in our usual circles, but I do hope you are—even if just for yourself.
We must not stifle the passions which give our hearts reason to beat.
I myself have been spending an unnecessary amount of time in my workshop lately.
I’ve found a recent love for the art of pottery and clay, and even had your brother build me a brand-new potter’s wheel—a waste of his talents, Dorian told me of course.
‘I design buildings, Father. I do not build artistry tools.’ And yet here I sit a mere two weeks later with a brand-new toy to play with.
Oh, here I am, droning on. I am sure you’ve better things to do than entertain my old heart. Regardless, I hope you are well and thriving. I do miss you so, and I wait to hear from you as soon as you are ready. Give Allard my regards.
Look into the sky, my love, and know that I am looking back,
Nikolai
PS- I’ve included one of my most recent pieces for you, inspired by what little Jonas has told me of your ghost. I pray it finds you safe and sound. All my love.