Dear Mother,

  It’s been 5 years since you passed, though it still feels like you are here sometimes.

  Good news, I actually was able to graduate from school, only by the skin of my and Enrique’s teeth. Now me, Enrique and Oliver are working at Burger Town. We are having a great time working together, even though we sneak off during our breaks to smoke.

  On the topic of smoking, Enrique and Oliver have really gotten deeper into it since graduation. And it seems I am losing interest in it, as I have been taking less smoke breaks with them.

  This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

  Earlier this week, I saw the girl I talked about a few letters ago. She has a boyfriend now and when I saw her come into the shop I had a mild panic attack and I had to take a break from work. Thankfully, Enrique was there to save the day.

  You told me to try living without regrets before you passed on, but I fear I have already failed that.

  Dad has really gone into the deep end recently, he’s been selling shares of companies that he’s been holding onto since you guys were in college. I think he is missing life in New York. Sometimes he comes home late, drunk out of his mind. He sobs all night crying out to you, I hope you hear how ridiculous he sounds.

  I, too, am missing life in New York, but life in Salem isn’t bad. The boys and I went to Lincoln City for spring break senior year, we had a fantastic time. Oliver found a glass float from the local glassblowers. It’s this nice yellow and orange swirl, I think you would love it.

  On that same trip we bumped into my old bass teacher, he was on his honeymoon. We chatted a bit, and he talked kindly of you. I hope he’s doing good with his wife.

  I am going to have to cut this letter short, I am sorry. I and Dad are heading out for dinner in 20 minutes, and I have yet to get ready.

  Love,

  Darian Washburn.