Page 4 of Hidden Vows (Love in Ashford Falls #3)

It’s interesting to see what moments stick in your mind as clearly as the moment they happened. I mean, I was six years old. Why does that moment stand out so clearly for me?

You and your mom were the only ones at the park when Dad and I got there, and you were having so much fun running and playing by yourself.

It amazed me, even then, how bright your spirit was.

Or maybe it didn’t, and I’m just older and can recognize you for how amazing you really were. How amazing I hope you still are.

The second you saw me, you came running, the brightest smile on your face.

You bravely told me you weren’t allowed to talk to strangers but thought your mom would understand that sometimes you have to talk to strangers to become friends.

You said you thought she meant it applied more to adults than other kids.

You were my best friend, Abbey. You’ve always been my best friend, and I wish more than anything that I could take it all back.

I’m sure there’s a greater lesson here somewhere—about everything happening for a reason and never regretting something because then you wouldn’t be the person you are today. And maybe they’re right. But I wonder every day if I’d be a better person if I’d just stayed.

I hate that I don’t know who you are anymore. I know it’s only been a year since I left, but there’s no doubt you’ve changed. If only simply because time always changes people.

But how else have you changed? Are you still the brightest person in the room? Do you still find enjoyment in the smallest things? Can you still find the tiniest light in the darkest of times?

Or did I ruin all of that?

Fourteen years after meeting you, and you’re still the person I want to talk to most. You’re still the person I think about most. You’re still the love of my life.