Today, I had a birthday party for the girls. Alysander turned five and Ambrosia is now four. When it was time to make a wish, Alysander turned to me and asked for you to come home.
It nearly broke my heart.
She looks just like you. Beautiful pale skin.Hair dark as a raven’s wing. I wish I could tell her where her daddy really is, and why he can’t come back. Of your bravery. Of the sacrifices you’ve made for us.
Except… well… I still don’t understand it all myself.
I love you so much.
I want to trust you.
But why haven’t you returned yet?
You told me you were one of the great Titan gods. That nothing could keep you away from our family once it was safe. But it’s been years now, my love.
We are safe.
So where are you?
Yours forever,
Mel
My hands shake as I open the last letter. This one is dated eleven years ago.
My Dearest Sonar,
I am afraid.
Something terrible has happened.
Yesterday, the girls and I were out for a picnic at the beach. I know you always warned me not to go out after dark, but it’sbeen so long. I almost forgot about the Underworld and those who wish to harm our family.
I heard the sound as the sun was setting. It was a howl so low and eerie, it sent shivers through my bones. It was like nothing I’d ever heard before, like it came from the very bowels of Hell.
It was the hellhounds.
You would’ve been proud of me. I didn’t panic. I scooped up Ambrosia, grabbed Alysander’s hand, and ran.
I could hear the pounding of paws behind us, monstrous, fast, closing in. I was so sure it would catch us. I thought it was all over. And then… I heard a squeal. A horrible sound I’ll never forget. Like bones snapping.
And then… silence.
I didn’t dare look back.
I still don’t know what happened or how we escaped alive. I just got the girls in the car and drove away as fast as I could.
I’m so sorry I ever doubted you.
I believe, Sonar.
I believe EVERYTHING now.
Yours forever,
Mel
I lower the letter, my palms clammy and hot. I’m in a state of shock, not sure how to react or what to think.
