Michael. As I walked away from the house now belonging to someone else, I stopped to talk to a local that had been there for many, many years. I learned that Mr. Rose died two years after I had left, Mrs. Rose a year after that. Quiet Falls Inn had been bought by a couple who had stayed there long before I ever ventured into the town. They kept it the way it was and had a picture of Mr. And Mrs. Rose hanging on the wall by the stairs.
Wally sold my car to help buy parts for his telescope, which was now sitting in town hall. He went off and joined the Military after graduating high school early. His mom moved to Florida.
I stood in front of the empty store that was once Michael's nook. I peeked through the dirty window to find the couches still there. I tried the door. It was unlocked. I opened the door slowly and smiled as the bell lightly tinkled against the frame. I had tears in my eyes as I walked over and uncovered one of the couches. I sat down and pulled out the envelope that Annie had given me. I opened it slowly and pulled out the single piece of paper with Michael's handwriting on it. The tears slowly ran down my cheeks as I began to read it. It read:
Jane,
I knew you would be back, even if it were years later. I left a year after you boarded that plane. I believe it was fate when you entered my life. And though I never said, or acted, on any of the feelings I felt, you changed my life. You reminded me that was more to life than just settling down and being who I am. I gave my books to Wally. I was surprised when he joined the Military, though glad he did. I still talk to him on occasion. I, like you, came back to Faith a year later. I was hopping that you had returned. I came back once a year for the next two years. On my last visit I left this with Annie. She's sweet. If fate brings our paths together again, I will welcome you with open arms. Remember, no matter what happens, you are loved. Stay true and always follow your heart. Keep Faith close. See you soon. (If the fates allow.)
-Michael