His first, in reply to my initial one:
Hello Aspen,
Nothing you write will offend me. It takes a lot to do so, and I’m not a man easily deterred. Ask me whatever your heart desires, and I will do my best to answer.
My name is Cade. I used to live in Ottawa as well. My job is boredom, my pet is a rock, and my habits include counting bricks.
Most of that is a joke, if you didn’t get that. I’m hoping to ease any anxiety you might have about contacting me because I don’t want you to be scared.This shouldn’t be something you’re nervous about doing. Also, thank you for your letters. I can’t recall the last time something made me smile for no reason other than being so pure.
I want to know all about you.
Why did you pick the name Millie? A one-eyed cat sounds cute.
Why did you choose a florist of all jobs?
Why choose Ottawa to live in? I know many who run from the place.
Your inmate,
Cade.
The day the letter got delivered, I remember ripping into the envelope and reading it aloud to Millie, mentally constructing my response before eagerly scribbling it. My plan was working, and it felt almost surreal.
After replying, I opened a new document on my laptop and started making notes about the letter and attaching images to it for quick consultation. Everything was coming together.
Then I waited in anticipation until the second letter was delivered.
Aspen,
Test all the bounds you desire. I have few. You’ll learn them quickly.
No, they don’t do anything for Halloween. It’s been quite a few years since I’ve celebrated.
Your answers to my questions are appreciated, so I hope you don’t mind more.
Why go into psychology over every other degree out there? Tell me what about the field intrigues you.
Since you enjoy florals, I’d be an ass not to ask you what your favourite flower is. What flowers would you prefer to be gifted to you rather than boring roses (unless you prefer roses)?
As for what my days look like, they’re fairly repetitious. I wake and will often exercise in my cell. Then we’ll be taken to breakfast. I’ll spend the rest of the morning doing whatever’s available: sometimes outdoors, other times simply lying around my cell or reading. The afternoons are meant for exercise and socialization, though I despise almost everyone here. Then I’ll read more before supper. Then supper. Then there will be more time in my cell until lights out.
It isn’t the most exciting life, but your letters make everything better, so thank you, Aspen.
Until next time, should you agree there is a next time.
Cade.
His directness always throws me. As if he’s trying to tell me something else within his words, but I’m not sure what. His mention of boundaries and not being offended should remind mewhoI’m speaking to—the kind of man receiving these letters.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned throughout my education it’s that a person isn’t bad simply because they’re in a bad place. Cade deserves the benefit of the doubt—of being bored and lonely, everything my paper mentions—and is seeking a connection with another human.
Truth is, I’m eager to be that connection.
Aspen,
Happy November. I prefer the cold over the heat, for sure. Cold means everything is alive. If you’re frozen, it means you’re outside, and I miss that.
I am definitely not bullshitting you by saying your letters bring me enjoyment.
