Echoes of You

13

Dear Caitlin,

Something unexpected happened today. I found a dog on my doorstep, a little stray with big, soulful eyes. He looked so lost and alone, much like I feel. You always loved dogs, and I never understood your passion for them. But as I looked into this dog's eyes, I felt a connection, a spark of something I couldn't quite place.

I brought him inside, gave him some food and water, and he immediately warmed up to me. I remembered how you used to talk about getting a dog one day, how you dreamed of naming him Toby. It felt like a sign, like somehow, you had sent this little creature to me to help me through my grief. I decided to name him Toby, just as you wanted.

As the day went on, Toby started to follow me around the house, his presence a comforting distraction from the emptiness. He has this way of looking at me, as if he understands my pain, my longing. When I sit down to write these letters to you, he curls up next to me, his warmth and quiet companionship a balm to my wounded heart. It's strange, Caitlin. I never thought I could care for a dog this much, but Toby has brought a small light into the darkness that has surrounded me since you left.

Tonight, as I lay in bed, Toby settled down at my feet. It reminded me of how you always wanted a dog to keep us company at night. I can almost hear your voice, your laughter, as you imagined Toby running around the house, bringing joy and chaos into our lives. I miss you so much, Caitlin, but having Toby here feels like a piece of you has come back to me. His presence doesn't fill the void, but it makes it a little more bearable.

I still ache for you every moment of every day. I miss your touch, your voice, your laughter. But for the first time since the accident, I felt a glimmer of hope. Toby's innocent, unconditional love has given me something to hold onto, a reason to keep going. I wish you were here to see him, to share this with me. I hope you can feel my love and my gratitude, wherever you are.

With all my love, Davin