Chapter 21 - Chloe’s letter
Chloe wrote to me two years after the gala.
Her first attempts through counsel had been terrible.
“I’m sorry I reacted.”
No.
“I’m sorry Lily was hurt.”
No.
The useful one began:
I slapped Lily.
I continued.
I was angry at you before she touched my dress.
There.
Julian had told me for months that you were controlling, that Lily was spoiled, and that everyone had to arrange themselves around the two of you.
She continued:
I wanted to believe him because it made what I was doing with a married man feel less selfish.
Honest.
When Lily spilled juice on me, I saw her as an extension of you instead of a five-year-old child.
There.
I struck her.
I did not intend to knock out her tooth. I did intend the slap.
Accurate.
Then:
Julian’s response made me feel protected for a moment. That is difficult to admit.
I remembered her smile.
Of course.
She finished:
Lily does not owe me forgiveness or contact.
Good.
I replied only:
I received your letter. Thank you for stating what you did accurately.
No contact resumed.
May you like
Apology did not create aunt status.
She had never been Lily’s aunt anyway.
