Secure// Ellie Williams

Letters

To my dear sister, Maria,

The infection is spreading so I can't make this long. I'm sorry I have to leave you and Lily. Take care of her for me, please? Keep her safe and secure and make sure she is loved even in this infected world. She's 6, and she holds so much innocence and happiness. Try your best to make sure she doesn't lose that. It's funny, she's my daughter yet she looks more like you. 

Please don't be mad that I'm leaving you with Lily. I know you never wanted kids, I know you didn't want to bring life into this world, but I hope you see the pride that having a child causes. Don't leave your heart closed, because I know it's big enough to be someone else's home.

Make sure to tell her stories of the old world and immerse her into it as much as you can. Have her listen to music, read books, watch old movies, take photos, dance and sing or really anything to hold onto humanity. 

Teach her how to protect herself. How to shoot and to hold the same bravery I've always admired in you. She needs to be able to shoot a gun and a bow and arrow, she needs to know that if the time comes, and we know it will, she won't be defenceless when she needs to be on guard.

Most importantly, show her that she is not alone. Sometimes this world seems so lonely and like everyone is against us, but she has a community full of people and I know you will shape it into a wonderful home for Lily and yourself.

I love you my sister.

Love, Emily.

My dear Lily,

Be brave in this world. Spread the joy and love in your heart. You'll be okay.

I love you,

Your mother, Emily