The Lies We Tell - 10. Chapter 10

“Dear Dylan,

I’m writing this letter to give it to you sometime in the future. When you are old enough for us to start discussing certain things, like your parents, how you came into this world, and how I got to be…whatever it is you’re going to want to call me. I would be thrilled with dad, daddy, or papa of course. But if you choose Cole, or uncle Cole, or any other name, I will be happy and accept that as well. The name doesn’t matter, what matters is for you to know that I will always be here for you, regardless of the circumstances.

Now, a little about your parents. Your mother was a real beauty. A cascading head of hair and sparkly green eyes—full of life, and a cute trail of freckles on her nose, which you’ve inherited from her. But most important of all is the fact that she loved you with her entire being. And she fought for you to have a good life, every step of the way, no mater how difficult things got. Your biological father—despite the devastation he brought into both our lives—was a very handsome and magnetic man as well. Unfortunately, he was fighting demons we know nothing about and will probably never understand. Because of that, you haven’t gotten the easiest start in life. Having your parents gone just minutes after you were born is not something I will ever be able to understand, but know that I will support you, listen to you, and endlessly empathize with any feelings you may experience regarding the events that took place that day.

I am here, waiting to talk to you whenever you are ready. And I want you to remember that your mother loved you so very much. Her only desire was to see you have a good life. That is something you will never have to question, and I will remind you of it whenever you might be in doubt. Your mother’s love will protect and guide you, always.

I want you to know that I am so lucky to have you in my life. You are my greatest blessing, and my most amazing accomplishment. And I will protect you and love you until my very last day.

Love Always,

Cole”

I put down the pen, put the letter into the envelope and seal it. I write “For Dylan” on top and put it away inside of my desk drawer. I’ll give this to him one day, when the time is right. We are going to have to endure this conversation eventually, as painful as it is going to be. It’s probably going to take a lifetime of healing for us both to get over all the pain Michael inflicted on our lives. All the questions he left behind unanswered.

I turn off the light and go into the kitchen to grab a glass of water. The two-bedroom apartment is drastically smaller than the condo, but it’s given me a fresh start. There are no memories associated with this place, and I’m thankful for that. Dylan and I will be able to make our own memories here—good ones.

I walk over to the nursery and look at baby Dylan sleeping. He grimaces in his dreams and I gently rub his little hand through the onesie he’s wearing until he calms down. “It’s okay, I’m right here. I’ll always be right here,” I tell him.

The End