Where It All Began

Chapter 27

NOW

Dear Lexie,

From the day you came into the world, all I ever wanted was to keep you safe. But you chose your own way. One of bravery and courage, driven to right injustices; there were things I couldn’t protect you from.

‘There were so many signs that something was wrong,’ I say tearfully to Joe. ‘But somehow I missed them.’ My voice breaks. ‘Everything was escalating. And there was nothing I could do.’

‘Oh, Edie.’ Coming closer, he puts his arms around me. ‘I’m so sorry.’

I lean against him, feel the closeness of him, a wall of grief hitting me, knocking me sideways as pain sweeps over me.

But Joe holds on to me. ‘I’ve got you,’ he says softly.

And in that moment, I know I’m not alone.