Chapter Eighteen
You’ve Got Mail
My Most Chaotic Mayhem,
As you are, as you have so frequently stated, an agent of chaos and mischief, perhaps you could explain to me how it is that a person can change so thoroughly as to be almost unrecognizable. For I am at a loss.
My nemesis, of whom I have spoken frequently, is a person who thus far, for the most part, has been a constant source of aggravation and grief in my life.
As you well know. But of late, he has become someone I not only tolerate but whose company I am quickly coming to enjoy.
Even seek out. How can someone who was once the source of my greatest grief now often be the source of my greatest comfort?
Is this some strange cosmic jest? Divine intervention?
Perhaps an illness from which one or both of us suffer?
Is there aught I can do about it? Or should do?
Do I give in and accept this new dynamic?
Or proceed with caution? Can someone change so vastly?
Or perhaps I am the one who has changed.
I truly do not know. All I know for certain is that I grow more and more fond of this person and am surprised, confused, and frankly terrified by this change of events.
…
Confusedly yours,
Millie
Postscript—I have thought what it would be like to meet in person. In truth, I both long to speak to you in person, but fear that doing so might change the very nature of our current relationship.
For better, or ill? Once discovered, it would be too late to reverse course. Still, yes…I do think upon it frequently.
My Dearest Millinery Marchioness,
I cannot say what has occurred with your nemesis, whether it be you or they who has changed.
But I do not think it is a cosmic jest. I have recently discovered myself that people do, apparently, change, even after a lifetime of certain behaviors.
In fact, I have found myself recently behaving slightly less chaotic and slightly more responsible.
I know. It came as a shock to me as well.
However, I have discovered, to my surprise, that I rather like having someone in my life to steady me.
To call me out when I have gone a step (or three) too far.
No one is more surprised than I that I not only enjoy this turn of events, but have, of late, actively sought it out.
Embraced it, even. A felicitous set of circumstances to be sure, as I have vowed to become a little more responsible.
Though I would hate to lose my roguishness entirely.
All that to say, yes, people can change. As for how you should proceed, I’m afraid only you can answer that question. Is this change something you can live with? You did say you are enjoying it, at least in part. And change is often unsettling, so it is not unusual to fear the unknown.
Though as this person has been the source of such grief for you, I would urge caution. I don’t believe anyone is beyond redemption. But that does not mean one needs to expose themselves to further heartache.
Whatever you decide, I am certain it will be the correct choice. You have ever been my voice of reason. I have no doubt you will discover the best course in due time. And I am always here should you need to someone to listen to your woes.
And never fear. I may have become slightly more dependable of late, but am and always will be…
Your Mayhem
Postscript—I am glad that you have given thought to meeting in person. I do understand your misgivings. And I share them. But like you, I cannot help but dwell upon speaking to you face to face.