Escape (Dana Vaughns) *EDITING*

Chapter 19: Mother's Love

I spent the next day just wandering around this giant house. There were so many rooms with so much to do in each. I discovered there was a recording studio in the house that was still fully functional and that we had chefs on call twenty-four seven. That part was the best to me because sometimes in the middle of the night I just really want some lasagna and now people can make it for me without me starving. I honestly don’t think that I would do that though; I’d be too scared to wake them up out of their sleep even though they are all really nice to me.

I was sat at the table with Joe, both of us eating what we requested for breakfast when he called my name. Looking at him questioningly, he told me to follow him. We were walking for about five minutes before he took me to a door that I had never been in before. We walked inside and there sitting above the fireplace was a giant painting of a family. I recognized them to be Kat and Dean, my parents and then there was six year old Joe and baby me. I smiled at that before looking all around.

“This was dad’s study apparently. He loved history as well as music and was always looking for a way to learn more so he had this study built where he could read all the historical facts he wanted.” Joe told me while I focused on a letter, peeking out of a giant black book. My name was written on it in beautiful handwriting and I pulled it out.

“Do you think this is for me?” I asked him while examining the envelope. He nodded his head yes, telling me that was the reason he brought me here and left me. I made my way over to the chair my dad used to sit in, careful not to tip over anything and opened the letter.

Rachel,

This is meant to be a letter for you on you eighteenth birthday. You, my little baby girl are so special and unique. I love the fire you have in your eyes whenever someone you love is in trouble. You and your voice are so beautiful. I want to raise you to become the star that I know you are and I hope that on the day you read this, you can truly believe it. I know that things are going to get hard, your dad and I are still being called to go everywhere with everyone and we cannot be with you every second of the day. I really want you to know that we love you so much and are extremely proud of all the accomplishments you have fulfilled by now. You’re only six years old while I am writing this and I already know what you’re capable of.

You, Rachel, are the light at the end of my dark and dreary tunnel. Being in the media can of course change many people and at one point, I thought I was close to being someone I am not. But, when I come home and I see your smiling face waiting at the bottom of the steps for me, I know that there is no way I could change. Raebear, you aren’t just the light for me though. Your father and brother both know of your importance. You have the capability to captivate and entertain the best of people and I know you will continue to do so. Know that whenever you need me, I am always there for you. Maybe not in person but you will know I am there. Let everyone you meet know how amazing you are and never let anyone stand in your way. You are a star and stars must shine bright.

I love you so much Rae.

Mom.x

“I love you too.” I said into the room as I felt the tears streaming past my cheeks. This one letter had the ability to change my life. I was done with being scared. My mother was depending on me to be her light and that’s what I would be.

I headed into the recording studio where Joe was sat and asked him if I could record. He looked a little shocked at first and then nodded his head. I went into the room, not holding anything back as I covered my favorite song from my parents. This is what my mom wanted me to do. I was going to shine for her if not anyone else.

We were playing back what I had just recorded when Dana came in. He had a can of Arizona tea in his hands. He sat next to me and sipped more of his drink before looking at me.