My heart tightened.
“What are you doing?” Emily called from the kitchen.
“Nothing,” I muttered.
I held the envelope for a moment before opening it.
The paper inside was slightly wrinkled. The handwriting uneven, careful—like every word had been written slowly.
“My son…”
That was enough to stop me for a second.
“I’m sending you a few things from the farm. It’s not much, but it’s what I could gather. The eggs are fresh. I dried the fish myself, the way you used to like. The salsa isn’t too spicy, so the little one can have some too.”
I swallowed.
I glanced at the trash.
“Sorry if it arrived with dirt. I cleaned everything as best I could. I thought of you while packing it.”
The words felt heavier now.
“How is my daughter-in-law? I hope she’s well. Tell her I send my regards. I don’t know if she’ll like this, but it comes with love.”
My chest tightened.
“I’m doing okay here. Just get tired more easily these days. The doctor says I should rest, but you know me…”
My hands trembled slightly.
“If you have time, call me. You don’t have to come. I know you’re busy. Just hearing your voice is enough.”
The last lines were smaller, like she was running out of space—or strength.