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I look toward the windows and realize the sun is already setting. I must have slept for hours.

My hand goes automatically to my chest.

That dream...

Damiano felt so real. His arms around me, his hand against my face, his voice.

So... here.

I shake my head and push myself off the couch.

It's just a dream.

Just a dream.

You still haven't read his letter.

The thought comes before I can stop it.

I look toward the bedroom. The letter is still in my nightstand where I left it.

But I can't...

You can.

Damiano's voice echoes through my head so clearly that my chest tightens all over again.

I stare toward the bedroom for another few seconds.

Then I turn around and walk into the library instead.

Maybe a good book will help me take my mind off it.

Jude

I’m on my porch when evening settles over the ranch, the only sound breaking the silence the song of the crickets.

Then a loud crash comes from Nora’s house.

Another one follows a few seconds later.

I put my beer down and make my way over there.

I knock once.

Nothing.

“Nora?”

No answer.

I try the handle and the door swings open.

The first thing I notice when I step inside is the silence.

Then another crash comes from the library.

I follow the sound and stop in the doorway.