Where The Ink Can Reach | Rossian

Thursday, June 12, 1920

Hey Love,

Have you gotten all settled in at home? How's your dad doing? Full of questions for you as ever?

Mum and Daddy decided not to stay in London this summer. Mum's reasoning was that it was too easy for me to try and sneak out and I guess they don't really trust me not to. It's actually all I've been hearing whenever I ask anyone if I'm allowed to do something outside these walls. I wasn't even allowed to go shopping with Julia the other day. I guess the charm isn't enough reassurance for them that I won't make some grand escape.

Oh well. Only three months of this, right?

Rae arrived here yesterday to visit with Benji. They seem to be having a nice time. And...his little sister is here. She was supposed to have been adopted by another family, but Julia just showed up with her a couple Sundays ago, I guess. I haven't really asked any questions.

Have you met up with Freddie or your theatre group yet? Tell me everything. I'm dying for any and all entertainment. There's only so many wanders around the castle I can stand.

Miss You, Rosalie xoxo

You won't be surprised to know Dad's been asking questions like he always does. He's a bit more anxious than curious, I think, but we talked some more when I first got back and convinced him I'm not about to make a run for it again.

Sounds like you didn't have as much luck with your parents. They must mean business if they took you out of the area completely. It's a wonder they haven't found the notebook. I'd been worried you wouldn't be able to use it either. I gotta say, gorgeous, it's only been four days and this is already feeling like it's gonna be a long summer.

Can't believe there's a party at a rich girl's house and I'm the only one not invited. I mean...I know why I'm not invited. Is your dad still mad about that? Mine tried giving me the talk again. Had questions about that. I did my best, but...um...pretty sure all I did was convince him you're my cover story.

When it isn't one thing, it's another. I'll set him straight eventually.

Freddie's great. So's the rest of the ga--actually, funny you mentioned it. Everyone's on high alert. Maddy's thinking of going for the female lead this summer. It's the first in years that anyone's auditioned against Jessica. The blokes and I have been keeping our noses OUT of it, but things might be getting rough.

If I ever stop replying, Jessica lost the role and murdered us all.

I'm glad at least one of us has a reasonable parent. I swear, mine are going to have an aneurism if I so much as breathe air that isn't circulating in this castle. I know I shouldn't complain. After what I put the whole family through, I guess I can't blame them.

I really wish you could be here too. It seems unfair that Benji gets to have his girlfriend over and then traipse halfway around the world with Matilda after. It's because he's a boy, you know? And both Rae and Tilly are purebloods so.

My dad is at least talking to me again, but bristles anytime the subject of the runaway is even inferred. He's still not happy about what he had to read. Cassian! What in the world did you say to make him think that? I am dying laughing over here. It must have been pretty bad.

Tell Freddie and the others I said hi. Especially Jessica. I know she's dying to hear from me. And all my best to Maddy, even if it would result in everyone's untimely death.

You're going out for the lead again, right? I have all the faith in you, handsome.

From My Ivory Tower, Rosie xoxo

Allow me to blame them for you. It's summer break. If they won't let you go to camp, the least they can do is let you out into the garden. Don't they know roses wither when trapped inside? You're made of tougher stuff, but the point stands. You can't go anywhere?

Ah, I stand corrected. It's a pureblood party at a rich girl's castle. Figures I'd never make the guest list. We'll have to have one of our own when we get back to school. I'll attempt to make all your favourite snacks, then when you've decided you'd rather live, we'll make a new batch together.

In my humble, half-blood opinion, I think your dad should be thrilled to know how well taken care of his daughter is. It's like they say, you can't please them all. As for MY dad, I don't think I said anything too awful, but I sure sold the shit out of the performance. My name'll be plastered all over the West End before you know it.

We've got the first auditions tomorrow. I'll be sure to pass on your well-wishes. Who knows, maybe Jessica really WILL break a leg. On the off chance she does, it's been an honour being your boyfriend. Remember me fondly.

I'm absolutely going for the lead. This year, it was practically made for me.

Saturday, June 14, 1920

Sorry for the quiet the past couple of days. I haven't really been sure what to write, in the light of some...new things that have popped up. But we can talk about those later on when I'll know for sure if it's really happening.

I can go in the garden, I just can't go outside these walls, you know? It's stifling. You'd think for a place as large and grand as this castle is, I wouldn't feel as claustrophobic as I do.

A party in the kitchens sounds amazing. Let's definitely plan for it. I want you all to myself - and I'm sure anything you make will be delicious. We won't plan a failsafe, because I know you'll knock it out of the park...but maybe we'll have Toddles on standby or something. That's not a failsafe! He's already there.

I don't think my dad is thrilled with any part of this, but I still can't help but laugh anytime I think of your 'good', when I told you he was well in the know. I say live dangerously, Cassian and tell the truth. What's the worst that could happen? I'm sure he already assumes considering we ran off. At least then he won't think you fancy boys.

How did auditions go? And tell me all about the part you're going out for, considering I won't get to watch you this time. As far as remembrance, don't worry my love. I'll dedicate the entire Room of Requirement to you. Plaque and all. Your name will be immortal.

Also, language. You've been getting really free with your cursing lately, Mister McCormick. Will I need to come over there and wash your mouth out with soap?

All My Love, Rosie xoxo

Okay, but you can't just start with something that cryptic then not expect me to worry. Is everything alright at least? Do I need to come and make a daring rescue? All things considered, I don't make a half bad hero when I'm determined. Let me know!

I'm glad you can go out to smell the roses. How big's the garden?

While I appreciate the faith you have in me, gorgeous, I think...just maybe...I'd still like to taste your baking and not have my taste buds withering at my own hands. Toddles will be great help and all. He's never let us down but I'm ready to be the taster again. I give great feedback.

As an update for you, I took your advice on a whim and told dad the truth. Man's a horrible actor. He'll never make it in show biz. I swear he nearly fistbumped the air before he caught himself and remembered he was meant to lecture me for messing around. There are very few times I've seen him sigh that deeply. You'd swear I told him I got early admission into The Wizarding Institute of Edinburg. I can tell he keeps wanting to ask more questions but I've been ignoring him since. VERY busy with the show, you understand.

The auditions went great! We get the cast list posted on Monday. I've got a really good feeling about it. This ones about a plucky guy who's been riding on raw luck his whole life. He makes it big and suddenly has to prove he belongs. I acted the shi I did good. Maddy did pretty good for hers too but we all had to grudgingly admit Jess was better so...uh...good news, you may not have to bury your boyfriend?

P.S. Sorry about the language, Mum.

Monday, June 16, 1920

Cass -

Now that I’m sure you’ve been ripped to shreds by my howler, I figured a regular letter was in order. Hope the message got through okay. Let me know if you need another.

As much as I would love for you to come and rescue me, we both know how it will end. I'll just wait for term to start, and then these new problems will be on the back-burner until the next holiday. Everything is not alright, but I promise you they will be. I'll figure something out, and tell you of course, once I do.

The garden's large. I'm not sure how to describe it for someone who's never seen it, so I've included a photo of it. It's quite beautiful, as you can see. Lots of various flowers and shrubs, and a medicinal garden as well. You would probably love to explore that one. I know how into the greenhouse and your own plants you've been into lately. I'll dry some for you and have Benji send them to you via owl.

I'm literally giggling over the idea that your dad nearly fist-bumped the air over us sleeping together. I guess he really was worried, wasn't he? As though the bitemarks on your neck and me literally staying the night at your house wasn't enough. Surely he knew I didn't stay in my own bed that second night? But yes, I get it. You're a very busy man. So many other things to not talk about with him.

So! Today the cast list went up, yeah? Give me the good news! I can't wait to jump up and down for you. It's too bad about Maddy, but if Jessica is the better actress then it is what it is. The good guys don't always win, you know?

Rae's got some sort of crush on James. It's irritating Benji and amusing me far more than I'll admit. You should see the way she stares at him at dinner. Girl is wild, honestly. I think she goes home today, and then Benji heads to the Amazon with Matilda at the end of this week, so I'll be here left to my own devices again soon.

It was a pleasure, as always, hearing your voice, gorgeous. In this dry desert that's been summer, your forceful words have been a symphony of soothing melodies that quenched every last morsel of my thirst. It was very thoughtful of you to have taken the time out to not only write me but to ensure I could hear your enchanting voice while it was delivered.

You're a gem. I'll keep you forever, and welcome any other voice-coded messages you might think necessary.

I'll take your word for it on the rescue, but only so long as you keep in mind that if it did come down to it, I'd be knocking at those castle doors before you could finish inking the next letter. I'd rather you tell me what the problem is now, but I'll wait if you insist.

You weren't kidding about the gardens being beautiful and huge! I wouldn't mind wandering around for a few days, but I can understand how impractical it would be if it were my whole summer. You don't have to trouble yourself with the plants if it's gonna be a problem. Really.

In all fairness, anyone could've left those marks on my neck, and Dad's a pretty heavy sleeper once he's out. Good thing, too, considering how excited one of us gets from time to time. It's always a pleasant surprise when it happens. Looking forward to the next performance, by the way. Can't wait to see which kind it'll be.

Oh! Right! Casting! Freddie beat me out for the role, but I've been made his understudy. It's not the most glamorous, but spending the summer working with him won't be the worst thing. Maddy didn't do much better. Like we all suspected, Jessica crushed it. None of us is surprised. I don't think we're even really disappointed--except Maddy, of course. She's also an understudy.

That actually sounds hilarious. Chaotic as those two are, I can imagine you've been well entertained. I'm glad they've been there to keep you company, only sucks they're gonna have to leave. What about your other cousins? Are they by the castle for the summer? Maybe you can find something to do with one of them.

You really are so funny, aren't you? A real comedian. That's where your strength is, love. Stop chasing the dramas and start playing to your real strengths. I'll let you know when the circus is in town so you can audition.

I'll tell you everything in my next note, promise. I'll know more after dinner tonight, so probably tomorrow morning. Don't worry in the meantime, okay? Also, love your determination. You could always come beat the doors down now and rescue me from this monotony. Anyway, update tomorrow.

Benji said he already had some plants dried and that he'd send them out to you this afternoon, so you should have them soon. He was weirdly adamant that he knew which ones you'd like better than I would. Who knew one term in the greenhouse would turn the boy into a horticulturist?

You are completely irredeemable, Cassian Thomas, and that's all I'll say on the matter. ♡

I'm so disappointed for you, but I'm sure Freddie will be fantastic as well. Give him my congratulations! And true, you two get to hang out and practice together. You should go to the arcade! See if either of you can beat my pinball score from last summer. I bet you a galleon you can't.

Matthew and Thomas aren't here this summer. Matthew's interning with a law office in Manchester for the next few months and Thomas is taking a gap year, traveling with his mate and doing charity work in South America or something. To say they're both relieved the weddings fell through would be an understatement, but everything works out for the best I suppose.

Other than that, just me and the old castle.

Tell your dad I said hello, okay?

Willing To Yell Again, Rosie xoxo

I'm afraid it's a little too late for me to fall into comedy, love. I've written myself into the tragedies and the epics too well. If this doesn't work out, I reckon I'll be shi I'll be fresh out of luck. That. Yes.

You're not making it any easier for me to not worry here. Dinner feels like it might as well be a whole year away. Wish you could at least give me a hint. I'll assume you're not in any immediate danger--you wouldn't be writing me if you were, and as crazy as Ms. Laurence is, I don't think she'd let anyone hurt you. No more cryptic messages, gorgeous. Not sure how much more of this not knowing I can take.

Oh, yeah, Benji's great with the plants. We had a lot of fun working in the greenhouses this past term. I showed him a few, he showed me a few, and I don't mean to brag, but I'm sure the plants flourished for it. Tell him thanks for me.

All my professions about being your biggest fan, and you're more worried that your dad will find the notebook again to humour me. I get it. Only one of us gains three extra years of life and health every time he gets the reminder.

We're actually headed to the arcade next weekend, now that you mention it. First, we gotta make sure your score's still there. It's been a whole year of obsessive kids with too many coins. Don't worry, though. If it's gone, we'll avenge your honour and set things right again...or try to anyway. You may really just have to run away to my house for an afternoon.

[Dear Rosie's dad, in case you ever read this, that was a joke. She's not running anywhere. Meant what I said about my life being tied to your ire, though. Definitely meant that.]

Don't worry about me and the play. Freddie really did kill it.

Uhh...Rosie...I think your cousin may have run away. Charity work in South America with his mate sounds like how you avoid the family and get to live the way you want in the humid jungle. I'm invested now. I need to know if he ever comes home.

Wednesday, June 17, 1920

Sorry sweets. I know I promised yesterday morning, but it's not at all what I thought it was going to be, and then Mum spent all day with me with the seamstress and...okay maybe it's just easier if I explain everything.

So, I had dinner that night with just my parents. That part wasn't unusual except for the fact that when we stay at the estate, we usually eat with the whole family. Anyway, my dad explained that summer is a big social season in our circles, which I knew of course, but apparently he has a lot of connections and deals that James wants him and my uncle to solidify.

Before Julia came to Hogwarts, she used to help her father and brothers navigate relationships with men they either wanted in their pocket or wanted to do business with. Sometimes they just wanted information and she would do things to basically lure them in, my mother says. It's not exactly common for families like ours to do this with their daughters, but it's not unheard of either.

What all this means is that I'll be accompanying my father and uncle to these events. I'm supposed to 'make friends' with whoever they want me to. Dance, flirt, charm. Get them interested enough so that I can get things out of them or in front of my family. I don't really know.

I can't tell you how terrified I am. I begged my parents. For what it's worth, my mum looked just as upset as I felt, but my dad was emotionless. I told them Julia would never let them, but when I ran to Julia after, she cried with me and just said she tried but James wasn't standing in the way of what my dad thought was best. She said since she can't stop them, she'll do her best to teach me how to do all of this. I don't know what to think.

Anyway, the first event is two weeks from Saturday and I feel sick. I'm so tired of feeling scared all the time.

I'm not telling you this so you'll do something crazy or get upset. I just don't want you to somehow hear about it from someone other than me, and think that I'm okay with any of this.

I need you to know I don't want to do this.

Rosalie

Sunday, June 20, 1920 Monday, June 21, 1920

It's my turn to apologise.

I'm sorry, I needed a few days to think about what you wrote and about what's happening. I read it over and over, thinking it might make more sense if I just gave it some time or looked at it with different eyes.

It didn't.

I don't know what to say, Rosie. You said you don't want me to be upset or do something crazy, but I don't know what you expect. I don't know a lot of people who'd hear about this happening to someone they care about and then forget about it like it's nothing.

I feel sick, too. Have felt that way since I read your last message, but not answering doesn't make me feel better, it just makes me worry more. About you. About all of this and what it means.

I hate that there's nothing I can do about this and that your dad's a piece of shit. Your mother and Ms. Laurence aren't much better. Crying together doesn't fucking solve

I was supposed to finish this yesterday, but I couldn't keep writing without getting more upset. There's nothing I can do but wish I were there to help, which doesn't fix anything either. It just makes me feel more useless.

What happens if you just don't do it? Or you're 'bad at it'. Surely they wouldn't push the issue.

I don't know, gorgeous. I really don't know.

It's okay.

I was worried when days went by without hearing back. But I get it, you know? It was hard for me to reconcile too.

I'm sorry. I didn't mean that you didn't feel right to be upset, only that I didn't want you to be. I feel like my family's done enough to cause problems between us this past year and I just hate that it keeps getting worse.

For what it's worth, I am sorry.

It's really not Julia's fault or my mum's. They only have the illusion of power, you know? It only goes as far as the men in my family allow. They can't do anything more than I can at this point. I know it sounds crazy because what kind of mother wouldn't do everything in her power to protect her daughter but...

Actually now that I've written that out, I realize that I'd die before I'd let anyone do this to my daughter if I had one. What does that mean?

I don't know what happens if I don't do it. I only know what's happened to others who have defied the family in a big way. I don't know if I'm allowed to be bad at it, or what would happen if I am. It really hasn't even occurred to me.

I feel so stupid. Why does it take you saying these things for me to even realize...

I need some time to think. Write me again, okay? Tell me about fun things going on with you. Please.

Love, Rosie

Tuesday, June 22, 1920,

We got in pretty late, so I couldn't reply. Freddie's been spending the week. Dad took us to a late show. I think it was phenomenal, but I reckon I ended up spending most of it wondering if you were okay and what was happening on your end.

Did you know we have locking charms on the back door now? I didn't. Dad never mentioned it, still hasn't. I think he's waiting for me to bring it up so he can ask why I know that. They definitely aren't on during the day. I'm starting to think he doesn't trust me.

Anyway, I'm glad I didn't have to work it out for you because you're right; a real mother would never let that happen. I don't know how I'd feel if you told me you'd be like her-- that if you and me ever had kids, you'd let our daughter entertain disgusting older men so I could have good business deals.

I don't...that's fucked up. It really is.

There's nothing they can do if you're bad at it, Rosie. If no matter the tactic, you just couldn't smile sweetly enough and didn't know how to lead a man on, nothing fixes that. Force doesn't. Seems to me they'd have a better time hiding you away again so you don't cause further disgrace.

Look, you're not stupid, you're scared. This really does suck. I don't have answers. I just can't wait for summer to be over.

Fun things. Okay. Um. A bunch of us went out after rehearsals. There's this cool little dance hall that opened up not far from the theatre. They've got some real bangers. I don't mean to brag, but I was amazing.

June 25th, 1920

Cassian,

Sorry again for it taking a few days, but things have been in an uproar around here.

I told my father no. I looked him dead in the eye, in front of my granny and the rest of my family and I told him no. I said I wasn’t going to do it, and if any of them tried to force me, I’d tell the men exactly what was happening.

My mum and granny nearly lost their minds trying to make me be quiet, but all my father did was stare me down. I was scared, but after my last letter I really sat and thought about things. About who I want to be, and who my family wants me to be. And I’m finally realizing it’s not just control they want. They want to erase everything that makes me me. They don’t want me. They want a doll. One they can position and use to their advantage.

And that’s not what family does. That’s not what people who love you do.

And then it hit me. My dad doesn’t love me. My mum doesn’t love me. None of them do. Not really. Because Cassian, what you did for me on that dock was love. My family is willing to scare me and put me in dangerous situations for their benefit.

Anyway, it all blew up. Julia and James tried to reason with everyone, while my dad just sat there and stared at me. The last few days have been painfully silent aside from my mum telling me I had no place to refuse. We had it out. For the first time in my life I yelled at her. I told her I’d never do to my kids what she’s allowing to happen to me.

That’s not something you’d ever have to worry about. I’m not a monster like these people. If we ever have a baby, just know that I’ll protect them with everything I have. Especially from the Laurences.

Long story short, I tried to run again night before last. I’ve got to figure out this surveillance charm. They caught me before I could get to the gate.

Strange that your dad put locking charms on the doors at night. Have you done something to make him not trust you? It’s been almost a year since we ran together. Surely you’ve earned some trust back?

And thank you for the minor distraction. I bet you were amazing. What songs did you sing? When summer’s over, you’ll have to show me your vocal talents. Tell Freddie I said hi. I’m glad you guys are having fun. You deserve it.

Not Scared Anymore, Rosie xoxo

I'm glad you wrote. I've been so worried since the last letter you sent, knowing what they're preparing you to do and how they likely aren't losing sleep over it. Thought they'd really found an ivory tower to lock you in this time.

I gotta tell you, I had to reread the first few lines just to make sure I got that right. You told him no? That's incredible! I'd kiss you if I could. That's HUGE.

Damn.

Shit.

It's an awful situation all the way around, and I wasn't sure what the next move was, but it sounds like you figured it out on your own. Even with the yelling, I'm glad you got to stand up for yourself and let them know you're not their doormat or their meal ticket for whatever deals they're trying to secure. You're mother had no right to be yelling at you for protecting yourself when she wouldn't.

I know you're not a monster. They raised you, but you're nothing like them. I could see that from the start, even if you couldn't. You don't think power's the only thing that matters. You understand that you have to take care of the people you love.

We'll see what we can do with that charm when we get back to school. No more running until then. Better not to give them extra reasons to think they need to tighten the reins before we can counter or remove it. I've already got an idea of some places we can start looking, but more on that when you get to school.

I actually don't know what's got Dad locking down the place. Only thing I can think of is maybe he heard me and Freddie talking about what's happening with you, but I never said I'd be reckless about it. We were just chatting. I found out, by pure coincidence, last night, that the windows are charmed shut, too. It's wild.

Freddie says hi, too. He's almost as bummed as me that you won't be able to see this summer's show. Maybe me and you can do some karaoke when we get back to the castle. I'll show off my vocals, and you can blow me away. The Room of Requirements is gonna be sick of us.

Don't mind me, love. I'm not sitting here beaming or anything.

I'm glad I could make you proud of me. I didn't want to do anything that would make you feel...I don't know. I just know if roles were reversed, I'd be sick over it and scared for you. And it would feel kind of like cheating, right? But even more than that, I just don't want anyone to think they have that kind of control over me. To make me do awful things and hurt you in the process.

I don't know how to explain it.

I don't know what will happen now, but I promise I won't try to run again if you don't want me to. I can handle a couple more months of this. The last thing I want is for my dad to lay the law down and refuse to let me go back altogether, but luckily because of everything, James is fairly adamant I need to remain at Hogwarts for appearances.

I guess your dad is still pretty upset over everything? It makes sense, and I can't blame him for being worried about you. At least your dad is doing it because he's afraid for you. Will you talk to him about it and reassure him that you're not leaving? I just don't want you in trouble anymore over me.

You'll have to tell me all about Freddie's performance on Opening Night! He was great as the supporting actor last summer, so I'm sure he'll be amazing. Tell him I'll definitely come next summer to watch you both. We can definitely sing together, but I think the Room of Requirement is already sick of us, if you know what I mean.

Wishing I Could Kiss You,
Rosalie xoxo

Don't worry, I understand.

I didn't want to say it because I know how hard it would've been standing up to it all and telling them you wouldn't do it, but I guess you're right. I really haven't been feeling good about it these last few days--and I know this isn't about me. That's not what I'm saying. I guess...I'm just really glad this isn't another thing we're going to have to deal with. Your boyfriend's a little exhausted, gorgeous.

Are you sure it'll be okay, though? I'm glad James won't let them keep you home, but...two months is a long time for your dad to maybe wear him down or find another way to be a massive thorn in our sides. Just promise me you'll be careful.

Dad is a little too busy with his meetings lately to be too worried, but you know what? You might be onto something. I can't help but notice that subtle look of relief when I walk down to the kitchen for breakfast in the mornings. He might really think I'm about to make a run for it again.

Maybe I'll talk to him. I guess. I suppose. Eventually.

I see you saved the best for last, hidden all the way at the end of your letter. I assure you, I have no idea what you mean. The RoR throws a party when it sees us coming, if you know what I mean. We shouldn't keep it waiting too long when we get back.

Which reminds me, I've got some great ideas for next term. It'll be the perfect set.

July 5, 1920

Morning my love,

Figured I'd write you a longer letter today since the past few days we've just been writing little notes back and forth.

Thomas returned from his 'charity trip' yesterday for a week's break. I told you he didn't run away. He hasn't got the actual nerve.

He and I sat out in the garden for a few hours in the evening after dinner and just caught up on everything. He told me about his mate - it's the same one from last summer. He said he's planning on ending their friendship when he gets back down there next week. When I asked him why - because they've been really close for a long time - he said he knows it can't be the kind of friendship he wants, and he's not willing to give all of this up for it.

It's probably for the best. Boys shouldn't have those sorts of friendships, you know? Especially boys like Thomas. It's strange in a way though - he seems colder than he's ever been. Almost removed from all of it. He's usually so warm and cheerful. I guess I can't really blame him after the arranged marriage they tried to force on him last year. He said it's better for him to be on his own going forward.

He asked me about us. Promised he wouldn't say anything to anyone. I didn't tell him much, other than we're still together and we're happy. He didn't even seem to listen, so I don't know why he bothered asking.

Have you talked to your dad yet? You've been putting it off.

How are rehearsals going? Anything interesting behind the scenes? Love triangles? You better be keeping your lips to yourself, McCormick. No snogging games for you. Teasing of course! A little.

...Mum's calling for me. It's not even eight in the morning yet. Can't imagine what she wants. I'll write you again soon!

I stand corrected, no running away.

I don't know what to think about the alternative, though. I can't say I'll ever understand that kind of love, and I don't know if I ever will, but I know love and it doesn't sound like that's what he had in the first place if he's willing to give it all up to keep himself comfortable with the family that's obviously using him.

Maybe it's for the best. Maybe now he can try more...um...normal kinds of relationships and realise he likes them better anyway, but there's a part of me that can't help thinking how much it must suck--not for him, he sounds like his mind is made up. The other bloke might not know what's coming. Maybe he does. Maybe heading off to South America together showed them that this isn't the sort of lifestyle they should be chasing.

I don't know how I feel about him asking about us. I don't think there's a single member of your family who doesn't feel some resentment about the whole thing. It's just...weird he'd ask. If nothing's come of it, then I guess it really could've been nothing but...

Dad and I have been busy, so no talk yet. Either I'm off at the theatre or he's working late on one thing or another. Last summer was the exception. He was home because you were coming over to visit. I'm also really not in that much of a rush. Let him sweat a little thinking I could pull another vanishing act. Might get him to pay attention.

Every time you tell me about another family member calling you, I end up thinking it's more bad news. My heart's not cut out for this kind of suspense. Let me know what she ended up wanting.

You've got nothing to worry about with rehearsals. Freddie's the one doing all the snogging. I just support from the wing--I forgot to tell you. We had an accident behind the stage earlier. Malfunctioning equipment or something. No one really knows. Jess took a nasty spill off the stage, couldn't walk around after, so they took her to the hospital. We're waiting to find out what's what. I'll keep you posted!

P.S. I can't believe you'd leave me hanging after a sentence like that. Write back soon. Now I'm curious.