Dear Risa,

  This page marks a new era in this book. I saw you shortly after my last entry, which is why I have left three blank pages between it and this page. If I fill up this notebook, which it looks like I will, I shall use those pages to press flowers which remind me of you, Risa Dearest.

  Yes, you did recognize this book the moment I pulled it out. Yes, you did try to beat me over the head with it rather than read the letters. Yes, I did end up tying you to a chair, and yes, explaining why I was tying you up was indeed awkward when the butler came in to investigate the screaming.

  Thankfully everyone in your house knows me, so it wasn't a big deal.

  Anyhow! We laughed. We cried. We cried some more. We told each other our deepest secrets. We ate way too much chocolate. And we fell asleep at like five in the morning.

  Aaaaaahhhhh I miss you again already. You should have come with us. I know you wouldn't be happy with this life, but I’d be happy you’re with us. If only Cali were your type. …No, that would be too weird. Besides, you’re already dating someone. I’m betting you don't remember their name by the time you read this, but currently, you are in a relationship.

  I’m glad they weren't at your place last night, because explaining why I was tying up their girlfriend would have been very awkward.

  Soooo yeah, I’m glad we were able to catch up. Even if it was just for a day.

  And now, alas, I’m back on the road. We should reach Fish day after tomorrow, since we’re on foot. We just stuffed all our things into the pocket dimensions, and Luke and Maki carried them like backpacks. Tonight Cali is sleeping above the portals in her flying carpet. Yes, the portal is facing the forest floor, which will suck if I have to pee, but oh well. We have plans for how to make things better.

  A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

  Even if you see me like a week from now, my living situation will have vastly improved.

  It still won't be as nice as your house, but it’ll be a lot more technical and magical and cool.

  In all seriousness, I’m glad you’re safe. You will always be my best friend. I’d die and kill for you, girl, even if we only see each other once a year.

  Regards,

  Maeve Zee

  .

  .

  .

  *****

  Echo shook her head, dying inside. “That’s not- I don't mind-”

  Maki put a hand on her shoulder. “Still, I should have talked it over with you. It hasn't really come up before, but I guess I have been thinking of you as my girlfriend for a while.”

  “That’s fine,” she insisted. “There’s just… I- Calling me that caught me off-guard because-” She stopped, the words refusing to come out. They stayed in her chest, curling into a ball and causing physical pain.

  Maki watched her, patient as always, willing to wait for hours if that’s what she needed.

  “I’m engaged,” she finally admitted, tears coming out with the words. “It was arranged last year, for political reasons. He’s nice and all, but I don't know him. No one expects me to love him, and I don't think I ever will, because I love you.”

  Maki’s ears went back, but he didn't say anything.

  “We're supposed to get married next year,” Echo said. “I was ok with it, because I’d never had… a boyfriend. But now I do.”

  He slowly pulled her into a hug and held her close, still not saying anything. She held him just as tightly, feeling his heart beating against her chest, and no more words needed to be said. He knew. She was going to leave soon, and he knew.