Page 2 of Cove City, Volume II

My Sweet Bunny,

I’m unsure if this letter will reach you, but if it does, how are you? The thought of you crosses my mind daily, and every day I wish you had chosen me.

I never left Toussaint, you know.

My father made me an offer I couldn’t refuse.

It’s dangerous out here beyond Toussaint University. The streets are cold and rigorous. They don’t care about anybody.

I saw your sister the other day, Bunny.

She’s doing bad.

Her demons are bigger than you know.

Let’s say she has gotten swallowed up in the epidemic.

I know graduation is near, and I’m so proud of you.

Even though you didn’t leave with me, you followed your heart.

Our season ended sadly, but I always wish you the best.

I got you a gift, I hope you like it.

Bunny, I met a girl.

She’s the complete opposite of you, but she’s cool.

Her name is Angela.

I know it’s probably something you don’t want to hear, but I have no one else to talk to. I’m not going to take up too much of your time. I hope you write me back. Send the letter to Ishmael, not my father’s house.

Always your best friend and first love,

Nook.

I closed the letter and put it back in the envelope. Since he and I broke up, the days and nights had become one. I had dived deeper into my studies as I tried forgetting him, but how could you forget your first love? I took a deep breath, looked into the mirror, and placed the cap on my head.

“You are the prize,.

“I whispered.

I stood from the chair and admired myself in my cap and gown. The sounds of my mother’s awes made me turn around.

“Let me get a picture.”

A forced smile eased onto my face.

I was happy I had made it this far, but I was sad that Naheem had found someone new.

I glanced over at my sister and studied her carefully.

Her eyes slowly closed as her body tilted slightly, almost like an upside-down L.

She was high.

No matter how hard she tried to play it off, it was apparent she was using drugs.

Naheem was right.

His letter did carry some truth.

It also confirmed that our season was over, and the love I thought I would have for the rest of my life was now somebody else’s.

I glanced up at my mother’s old camera, brightening my smile.

“Class of '89!.

“I shouted.

Snap!

It was time I thought about myself, and any memories of Naheem would be stored in a safe place in my mind.