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DEAR LEON,
By now, I'm sure you are aware of the fighting that is occurring all around Paris. Perhaps you've even been called to fight with the army. If that is the case, I pray that I don't face you in the next battle.
I'm writing to you from the barricades. I'm sure it's something that you've suspected for some time now, but I'll be happy to admit it to you now: I'm a revolutionary. I have been for some time, and so has Andre. For months, we've been fighting to bring change to France that you and so many other people refuse to accept needs to come. But it does, Leon. Our country is in desperate need of change, and I'm confident that me and Andre and every other person brave enough to stand up to the corruption can make it happen.
You've never supported my desire for change, but I pray that you at least try to understand my decision.
Andre said to me yesterday that this is how he wished to be remembered. He was the bravest person I've ever known, and I will always remember him for what he believed in. What he fought for.
I speak in the past tense because our brother is dead, Leon. Andre is dead. He was executed last night alongside one of our friends. They both remained fearless until the very end. Their beliefs never once faltered, and I believe that they died as heroes. One day, the world will know their names and all of France will thank them for their sacrifice.
I saw him die. The last thing he said was my name, and I will spend the rest of my days wondering what he was going to tell me before the army you pledged to serve cut his life far too short. I hope he was proud of me. I hope he knew how much I loved him.
I must ask one last thing of you. Andre's lover is pregnant. I'm unsure if you know of her, but her name is Marie, and Andre was going to marry her. Now, not only will she be without a husband, but their child will be without a father. I understand that you don't agree with my fight to bring change to the rights of women, but Leon, you must know how limited our options truly are— especially for mothers who have no husbands.
I fear for Marie and what will become of her once she gives birth. Please, remember her child is Andre's, as well. It will be all the world has left of our dear brother. Look out for her, Leon.
I didn't mean for this letter to become so long. It was only meant to be an explanation for my absence and to tell you of Andre's passing, but there is one final thing that you should know. I found love— real love, that was not forced upon me in the form of an arranged marriage. It may or may not come as a surprise, but the man I love is one you have met before. He was Andre's friend first, and then mine, and in the end, I can comfortably say that he is the one I want to spend my final moments with. His name is Enjolras.
I have faith that we can win this battle and lead France into freedom, but I am prepared to die by his side if things do not work out in such a way. If that is the case, then please know that I died happy, fighting for what I believed in with the man I love right beside me.
Perhaps this is adieu. Despite everything that has happened, I still love you, Leon. That has never changed.
Sincerely, Madeleine
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