Page 114 of Tear Me Apart

Liesel

January 1998

Liesel,

It’s taken me a while to answer you because I AM OUT!!!!! For good this time.

I am living (sort of) on my own, in a halfway house near our old neighborhood, and I couldn’t be happier. It’s broken into apartments. I have a nice roommate, and I feel like I’m on solid ground for the first time in a very long time. One day soon, I hope to have enough money saved up to come visit you. You’re so far away now! I hope life has been treating you well. I also have a part-time job at a restaurant near my house, just bussing tables, but the owner said once I’m fully trained he will promote me to hostess. Can you imagine, me, a hostess?

I also have a boyfriend, though I think I’m going to dump him. He’s too maudlin for me. Hung like a horse, though. He likes my piercings. I didn’t tell you, I added another to my belly button, it’s super cool. You should do it, the double ring looks really sexy.

Love you, friend,

V

PS: Sorry about the email, I don’t have a computer. Besides, letters are so much better. Email feels like too many people are watching.

May 1998

Dear V,

You’re aren’t going to believe this, but I’ve gotten married!

His name is Kyle Noonan, and he is a big shot lawyer here in town. We eloped! My mom is so upset with me. Almost as mad as when I got that tattoo right after I got out of “school,” and she made me have it removed. God, that hurt.

Anyway. Kyle’s a great guy. I hope you understand why I didn’t ask you to be in the wedding. We decided to do it, and went and did it. Vegas, baby! It was crazy, and I’m not sure it’s the wedding I always dreamed about, but he is handsome and kind, and this is going to be such an exciting ride.

We’re going to try for a baby, too. I’ve always wanted to be a young mother, as you well know.

I’ll send pictures once they’re developed!

Love,

Liesel

December 1998

My darling Liesel,

That’s awesome! Big news here too: I’ve met someone. Like, the guy, someone. He’s amazing. Tall, and handsome, and smart. He came into the restaurant, and I served him. I acted like an idiot, all fumble fingers, but he left me a massive tip with his phone number!! We’ve been seeing each other for a couple of months now, and I have to say, I don’t think I have ever been happier. Thing are moving fast, and he asked me to move into his apartment on base. He said if I like it, we can stay there, and if I’m not happy, we can get a little house together somewhere. I think he’s amazing.

Since I will no longer be a single white female, I have a huge favor to ask. As you can see, I’ve enclosed all your letters in this package. I am scared to death he might find them during the move. Once we’re settled, and he’s deployed again, you can send them back. But for now, can you keep them safe for me? I treasure our correspondence. It’s kept me going through dark times and through light.

You are going to love him, Liesel! Can’t wait to meet Kyle, too!

Love,

V

January 1999

V,

Completely understand. Your secrets are safe with me. He sounds DIVINE!!! Send pictures soon! Oh, if you have access, you can always email me. We can talk there if it’s easier for you. It’[email protected]’t tell anyone yet, but I missed my period. Shhhh–

Love,

Liesel