Written in elegant handwriting and tucked in the nightstand is a letter that will be easily found before she leaves the household.

Mister Appleton,


I fear things are far too complicated to explain in person, so I am writing this letter to you. I am leaving because I think if I don't, I will only make a mess of things even more than I already have. I envy your wife. It hurts every time I see your Emma being rejected by her mother. I am sorry.

I must go.

I

The letter is unfinished and wrinkled up, as if she was going to throw it away.

Another piece of paper soon joined the prior, this time falling to the floor.

Mister Appleton,

I have started this letter over and over again, only to throw it away and waste paper. Ugh. This isn't what I want to write...

And then the next,

Mister Appleton,

I think I should leave as soon as possible. I am sorry but I must go. I wish things were different but they aren't.

But the most telling one of all wasn't addressed to Mr. Appleton but somehow found its way into the mx...

Dear Journal,

I cannot stand this anymore. I am catching feelings of love for a child that does not belong to me, and now I wish Mr. Appleton would see me for what I am and that is sinful. I must leave sooner... Perhaps it wouldn't be as painful if I just began to pack my belongings tonight... I have to get out of here... It's not right.