Chapter 3: Lucas's Last Letter
A week later, Maya made a decision.
She invited Ethan and his parents to her home.
Inside a small wooden box were letters, photographs, and hospital bracelets she had kept for two years.
One envelope had never been opened.
It was addressed simply:
For Ethan.
Lucas had asked Maya to deliver it if she ever met his younger brother.
With shaking hands, Ethan unfolded the letter.
Ethan,
If you're reading this, then Maya finally found you.
I hope you don't spend your life remembering me because I died.
Remember me because I learned how to live.
Maya taught me that strength isn't pretending everything is okay.
It's admitting when you're scared and choosing to keep going anyway.
Be kind to her.
She'll never ask for help, even when she needs it most.
And little brother...
Don't waste time.
Tell people you love them while you still can.
Tears streamed down Ethan's face.
His mother quietly covered her mouth.
His father looked away, unable to hide his emotions.
May you like
For the first time since Lucas's passing, the family felt something besides grief.
They felt peace.
