81

Gael

Donna's letter.

Hi, son! If you're reading this letter now, it's because you've finally accepted my request and come to the place where you've always belonged. I can assure you that I'm nervous about writing these words, but believe me, it's for the best! Talking about my past has never been easy, especially having to look you in the eye and say that I failed as a mother. And even if you are now convinced of my love for you and say out loud that I didn't fail. Yes, I did! I should have given my life in exchange for yours, but I didn't because I wanted to have everything, including you. Anyway, let's get down to business.

Before I tell you everything that really happened the day I left home, I want you to know a bit about my story. My name is Donna Mason. I grew up in an orphanage in the greater Seattle area and only left when I reached the age of majority. The nuns sent me to a shelter because I didn't have anyone to look after me or a house to live in. I even had my first job as