~ELENA~

I turn the frame over and my heart stops.

A folded piece of paper is taped to the back.

My hands shake as I peel it off and unfold it.

Her handwriting greets me. Elegant. Slightly slanted. Alive.

Elena, my sweet daughter,

If you ever happen to come across this note, I must be dead by then.

A sob rips out of my chest.

My knees buckle, and I sink onto the edge of the bed, clutching the letter as my tears blur the words.

I am sorry for not showing you enough motherly love. I didn’t mean to—but I didn’t know how to show enough love when I...