Her scent was all I could remember of her.
It's something easily copied and yet still wildly different. For years I've searched for that scent. By air, sea, and land. By wishing, hoping, and praying. When I was five I asked father where you've gone and all he could give was a quivering smile as he pats my head delicately. I was confused. You left no picture, no letter, no warning, no clue. All you left was your scent. A scent that has been engraved into my heart too deeply. I smell it in the kitchen, every inch of it marked by you. I smell it in the garden, behind the strong smell of roses and lavender. When I was ten I asked once more, this time he replied,
"She's alright, Violet."
I accepted it and moved on. One day my teacher told the class that soon there will be a 'Bring Your Mother to School Day'. I went up to my teacher and said that I didn't know where my mother was. Her face then turned into something I couldn't quite understand back then. She told me it was alright and that I could bring my dad. I went home full of questions with no one to answer them.
Then fifteen came and I've accepted her missing presence. As I was looking around the shed ( I broke the wheels of my bike and was told there were spare ones up there) I came across an enormous box with the word ' Vanessa' written in red ink. I was about to go down and ask about it, instead, curiosity took over me and brought it to my room to open it myself. The second I opened it your scent immediately filled the room. I gasp as tears started forming in my eyes. Inside were dozens of photo albums, letters, and charms, but on top of it all was an envelope. It looked old but untouched. My head started spinning, my heart started going heavy, my stomach started churning.
"What is this?" Was all I could muster.
I held the envelope, certain there was something inside. I cautiously opened it revealing another letter.
Dear Violet, my daughter,
If you're reading this, it only means that I am no longer there physically. Your mother has been diagnosed with cancer and is currently in stage 3. I'm writing this letter to tell you that there are some things that are meant to happen. That we are not in charge of our life. We are merely characters with specific roles and timelines. What I do know is that you will grow up beautiful and strong. Especially with your father by your side. My sweet angel, please don't be angry. Please don't be angry at your father or the world. He only did what he thinks is best for you. Promise me darling that you won't let this hinder you from fulfilling your dreams. I'm always with you Violet. In your heart, and up above, guiding you. I'm sorry if I had to leave. No mother would want this. I love you, my child.
I love you, my Violet.
" So you found it."
I face my father, who was leaning on the door frame. With tears coating my cheeks and shaking hands, I smile at him.
" I found her."
⚘ ⚘
