Chapter 4
Dear Mum and Dad,
It's been about two years, and I'm in a better place now, even if my struggle still lingers. I'm finally eating more consistently, thanks to Mrs. Weasley. Her warmth and generosity are truly wonderful; she treats me like family, even though I'm not hers. You were right about her—her family is incredibly lucky to have her. In her presence, I feel a sense of belonging I've longed for. It's almost as though I'm coming home again; though, nothing will ever be able to replicate the feeling of coming to you.
I find myself laughing and talking with her, and I don't know why, but I feel guilty. For some reason, it feels as though being around them feels like I'm replacing you guys? Even after everything, I just have this feeling that I don't have the right to be as happy as I am. Does that make me crazy? Probably. But I know exactly what you would say if you were here, so I'll move on ... for now. It's just always sitting in the back of my mind.
Anyway, the air is cold now. And the leaves are starting to change color and fall from the trees. It truly is a beautiful sight to see, but you know what that means. It's that time of year when we head back to school. I've surprisingly made it to my second year at Hogwarts University; it feels absolutely ridiculous to say that, considering I didn't think I'd ever make it this far. I love it there; I just get this gut-wrenching feeling whenever I see everyone's parents sending them off for the first semester after I've spent all my time in the cottage.
I think I'm going back to stay the whole year this time. I promised myself that I would continue to focus on completing my education because I know that's what you would want-especially you, Mum. No matter what comes my way, I will do my best to make you guys proud.
Words couldn't express how much I miss you. It will always feel like parts of me are missing, and the quiet cottage of solidifies the part of me that feels empty.
Truly yours, Althea