“They began writing to one another again shortly after your parents passed away,” Samantha revealed.

I stared at the bundle of letters in shock.

“Did Rose know about my existence all along?”

“Yes, she knew all about you,” Samantha confirmed.

“Did I ever meet her when I was younger?”

“Not to my knowledge.”

“Why wouldn’t Aunt Madeline introduce us?” I asked, feeling a slight sting of hurt.

“Madeline felt strongly that you had already suffered too much loss all at once,” Samantha explained gently.