Written With Love

Raisel’s POV

“Raisins.” I stared at the nickname, my heart caught somewhere between a laugh and a lump in my throat.

“This isn’t Davina writing, but—” Hazel cut in, grinning. “I’ll give you and that letter some privacy, now that I know it’s not a threat letter. It's a love letter.” She winked, her tone playful.

I blushed, caught off guard.

As my eyes returned to the letter, I caught a soft trace of his cologne clinging to the page — warm, spicy, unmistakably him. And just like that, a rush of emotion surged up, bittersweet and strong. A strange calm swept over me. Even if things were uncertain, this letter brought me back to center.

The Letter

Raisins,

This is a rough patch we’re going through — being apart like this. But it won’t last forever. I know that in my gut.

Raisins... are you eating on time? You always forget when you’re caught up in work. Skipping lunch is basically your thing — and it drives me nuts.

{I smiled through a tear. I could almost hear his voice, every word alive with his tone.}

I’m sorry for being away. Killian told me what’s going on with Davina. I swear, I nearly booked the first flight to come shield you from it all. But then I remembered... you made me promise to stay out of it. You knew the only way to stop me was to use that promise I swore I’d keep — no matter what. Cruel move, Raisins.

{I closed my eyes. I had to stop Soren from rushing in, had to use that promise against him — the very one he gave me so willingly. I hated doing it. But there was no other way.}

But I can’t be angry at you. Just... make sure you keep your end of that promise — to keep yourself safe. Because if I find out you’ve been hurt? I won’t be stopped next time. I mean it. I’ll come. I’ll face whatever happens after — consequences be damned. Just remember that, Raisins.

I sighed, rereading the paragraph. A love letter disguised as concern. Or maybe... concern wrapped in love. I looked further down the page.

I miss you — badly. I miss your smile, your warm eyes, the way you smell, the comfort in your voice. I know it’s cheesy, but I miss everything about you, Raisins. I’m sending you a photo — something to keep you company. Please write me back. Send a photo too, if you can. It’ll keep me going... just seeing your face, even on paper.

I don’t know how much longer I can take being apart like this. I love you to the moon, Raisins.

I picked up the photo tucked inside. His familiar smile. His hair — shorter than I remembered. Eye bags that hinted at sleepless nights. And those muscles... he always looked strong, but now? He looked tired. My heart clenched.

I kissed the photo gently and pressed it to my chest, closing my eyes.

This letter — this man — I had to protect both.

I folded it carefully and placed it in the locker, where it would be safe.

I sat down with pen and paper.

Babe,

What a classic way to reach out. Honestly, I feel like we’ve stepped into the 19th century with these handwritten letters. Who gave you the idea? I love it.

Soren, I’m sorry I made you keep that promise to stay where you are — but I had to. I need you here, yes... but not in danger. I hope this time apart flies by so we can finally be whole again.

{I paused, staring at the paper. Should I tell him? Should I say it now? He’ll find out eventually. And if he hears it from someone else... I don’t want him hurt by that.}

Babe, I’ve been taking better care of myself these days. I’ve included two small photos — one to make you smile, and one... well, that might change everything.

I hope you’ll still keep your promise and stay put after reading this, though it won’t be easy.

I miss you so much, Soren. Eat well. Rest when you can. I sprayed a little of my perfume on the letter — just to feel closer. And... I included one photo of our baby’s sonogram. The second photo is of me — taken with my Instax mini.

There’s a note attached too: You’re the father.

I didn’t need a test to do it, but I took one anyway — just to be sure. I used a strand of your hair from your brush and a sample from your toothbrush. The results confirmed it —you're the father of my child.

I hope, with all my heart, that this news makes you happy.

As I sealed the envelope, I handed it to Killian before his flight to the UK today.