To Analise,
It's incredible how close we've become in just a month, isn't it? We've sent so many letters I feel like we're in the 1800s or something, and it feels like I've known you forever. You've become my best friend.
And since I feel comfortable with you, I wanted to write about something more serious. Just to like vent real quick. So at the beginning of this year, I lost my mom in a car wreck. It's been hard and my dad isn't really the same. I can hear him crying at night but he tries to stay strong for me. I just don't know how to help him. We just miss her, you know. Losing her left a void in my heart, a pain that never truly goes away. It's wtv I mean ik things will get better it's just hard being alone all the time. At least I've got you though.
Hurry and write back,
Jose
06/07/2021
To Jose,
I appreciate you opening up about your mom; that's a heavy burden to carry. I'm truly sorry for your loss, and I can imagine how tough it's been for both you and your dad. You miss her deeply, and it's natural to feel that way. It's good that you're there for each other. Grief can be overwhelming, and it's okay to have those moments when you need to vent or feel sad. You're not alone, Jose. Your dad sounds caring, and I'm sure having you by his side means the world to him.
I've actually been wanting to share something too. My mom has drinking problems, and it's been really tough. When it gets bad, she trashes the house, yells at me, and it turns into a whole mess. My mom and dad end up fighting, leaving me to clean it up every time. It's exhausting, Jose, and sometimes it feels like I'm alone even when they're here. It's just so much. We both have so much baggage.
I'm glad we have each other now and hopefully we meet IRL one day. Fingers crossed! Oh and we should try to figure out what we look like based on our letters. You go first.
Don't take too long,
Analise
06-10-21
To Analise,
Geez, Analise I had no idea. It sucks that your mom is like that. How long has it been going on? I'm so proud of you for being able to get through and help them out. At least you'll be 18 in a couple more years, right?
I'm glad you were able to talk to me about it though. I'm always here and I'll respond as fast as I can.
As for what you look like? To be honest I've thought about it a lot but I thought it might be rude to ask. I picture you with a warm smile, bright eyes that light up when you're excited, and a heart full of compassion. How close am I?
HURRYYYYY,
Jose
06/17/2021
To Jose,
You are the cringiest person on earth like that is so gross. And you're wrong. I don't even smile so try again.
Anyways my turn: I think you have tanned skin and straight hair probably cut into like a bowl or something, and you like to wear socks with sandals. You probably have brown hair and brown eyes, also maybe a beauty mark above your left eye?
HURRYING RIGHT BACK AT YOU,
Analise
06-19-021
To Analise,
Wow how rude of you. That letter was just insult after insult like come on, socks with sandals? It should be illegal!
I do have brown hair but I have blue/grey eyes not brown. And I actually do have tanned skin, but my hair is cut into like a mullet I think but like long? I'm not sure my dad does it. I'll send a polaroid even though I don't like the way I look in it.
I think you have green eyes and curly hair and you look like you write in blue pen.
You're a copycat btw,
Jose
06/22/2021To Jose,
Grey/blue eyes and a mullet-like haircut, got it.
As for your guess about me, you're not too far off. My eyes are actually brown too, and I do have curly hair and I write in blue green, not blue. I'll send you a photo too, it's the only one I have of me smiling.
And hey, I'm not a copycat; great minds just think alike!
Looking forward to your next letter,
Analise
06-30-21
...
To Jose,
This week's letter will get deep again, okay?
Today, for the first time, my mom hit me. It was a moment I never thought I'd experience, and it was out of nowhere. I don't even know why it happened. She was just drunk and usually she just yells, but this time it was different. I'm scared, Jose, and I don't know what to do. My world is spinning, and I can't make sense of any of it.
I've always tried to be strong, to keep things together for my family, but today, it all fell apart. I don't know if it was the stress, the drinking, or something else. I just can't make sense of it.
I thought about writing to you because you've been so supportive and I trust you. Maybe you have some advice or I don't know just say anything to make it okay. I hope you don't mind me burdening you with this, but I needed someone to talk to, and you were the first person who came to mind.
Thanks for being there for me, Jose. I'll be waiting for your response, even if I don't know what to expect.
Looking forward to your next letter,
Analise
11-20-21
To Analise,
I can't even explain how upset and angry I am. I wish I could be there with you right now to protect you and make sure you're okay. Are you safe now? I hope you're okay. You're not burdening me at all, and I'm glad you reached out. It's heartbreaking to know that you had to go through something like that. And remember that none of this is your fault.
It breaks my heart to know that you're living in this situation. You don't deserve any of this, Analise. You deserve so much better. I admire your strength in reaching out and talking about it. Please, keep staying strong, just like you've been doing.
I may be miles away, but I'm here for you. Whenever you need to talk, vent, or share, I'm just a letter away. You're not alone in this, I genuinely care about you and hope that you're safe. I wish I could help more.
Please take care of yourself and stay as safe as possible.
Stay strong,
Jose
11/22/21
YOU ARE READING
Love yours
Storie d'amoreLetters exchanged between Jose and Analise chronicle a profound connection forged through handwritten words. Beginning with Analise's revelation of a troubling family situation, Jose becomes her pillar of strength, offering unwavering support and ca...