My hands shook as I unfolded it.

My dearest Eugene, If you are reading this, then you have met Carol, and you know the truth I was too ashamed to speak while I was alive.

I am sorry.

Those three words blurred. I wiped them with the heel of my hand and read on.

I am sorry for making you live beside secrets. I am sorry for letting you believe my distance was your failure. It was mine. I was a frightened girl before I was your wife, and I carried that frightened girl into our marriage without ever giving you the chance to know her.

Carol is my daughter. She is not your betrayal. She is my first wound and my last chance to heal something I broke. Please be kind to her if you can.