I flipped the page, ready to read the next chapter of a fanfiction novel. These past few weeks, all I ever want to do is read books. It makes me feel like Lenna is here with me.

My fingers stroked the prints of letters delicately. Today is autumn. The leaves are starting to turn brown and fall on its branches. Sometimes, I wanted to see them tumble slowly, twirling with elegance, as it gently lands on the grass. Thinking about it made me shiver from fear. I started to remember my past, my childhood...

--

"Stop it! Dad, please stop hitting me! I'm sorry! I'm sorry I tried to remove my blindfold. Ack!". Father's beating continued, his belt smacked at every part of my muscle, giving them violet and blue marks.

" I'll make sure that your body knows what to do next time! You are going to curse our family! I won't stop beating you until you've learned your lesson.", father said, raising his belt high in the air, not showing any signs of stopping.

--

I was little back then. Since then, I have never even thought of seeing. The trauma dad brought to me was like a hot iron pressed at my brain. It stays there forever.

There was a knock at the book. I called them to enter. The footsteps are familiar. "Mother, what are you doing at this hour? Shouldn't you be watering your plants at this hour?"

I closed my book and place it on my side. My mother was sitting next to me. She placed something on my hands. A piece of paper. I stroked the paper, wanting to know what this is.

"Someone handed this to me. This is from Lenna." Mother's words made me grin. Lenna! Finally, I can know what happened to Lenna. How happy she is in her new life.

I unlocked the envelope, trying not to make any damage to it. I opened the paper. Using my long fingertips, I traced the letters in it.

Dear Rachel,

   How are you? I hope that you are doing well. I walked into the aisle, finally going to see things that I didn't see. Everything is so beautiful! Someday, you'll marry the man for you and be able to see like me.

Oh! I saw a gorgeous water fountain right in front of my new mansion.
Once you're married, let's go and look at it! We'll also have a snack while playing cards. I made a list of things to do with you once you get married. Hehehe.  It's weird. I thought my handwriting good, but it turns out to be a bit sloppy.

Well, I'll be ending my letter now. You can write back anytime! (Write as soon as possible! I want to see your handwriting!)

      
                       Lots of Love only for you,
                                        Lenna

--

My cheeks started to hurt after smiling too much. She knows how to make me happy. I gave the letter a gentle hug, wishing that it will reach her.

I placed the letter back in the envelope neatly before rushing to my desk, ready to write back to her.

I wrote how much I missed her and that I am so excited to see that fountain that she saw. I wrote many things -little things that happened here- for her to read. After writing a few more paragraphs, I grabbed an envelope - a scented one- and inserted my message.

I asked my mother to send my message to Lenna as soon as possible. My grin widened after hearing my mother's approval.

--

For months, Lenna became my pen pal. She tells me how her life went. She lives a wonderful life, She was able to have her garden, and currently, she is pregnant with her child. I am so happy for her! 

I closed Lenna's 15th letter and placed them properly in my treasure box. It was designed with beautiful shells sprinkled with silver glitters. Lenna gave the treasure box to me for my 16th birthday. I remembered tearing the wrapper open, revealing the gorgeous treasure box for me. Even if I can't see the gift, my happiness can't be hidden. "Thanks, Lenna! This is the best gift ever! I love it so much!"

She held both of my hands and placed them at her face, letting my fingers feel the corner of her lips. She's smiling.

I smiled back.

Those days, those memories. Oh, how happy will I feel to replay it over and over again.

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     Hello guys! I hope you are having a good time reading. I just want to clarify their relationship with each other. Lenna is Rachel's cousin that's why Lenna follows their family traditions. Ever since they met, they are attached and close to each other. They sometimes call themselves "twins", having the same interest and same traditions.

     They love each other, but as sisters, friends, and cousins. They don't have feelings toward one another.

     Well, enjoy reading, and have a good day! XOXO