#Chapter 193: A History of Violence

Nathan When I awoke the morning after the failed ceremony, Olivia was already gone, along with the stroller and the twins. Her morning walks had become a ritual, a time for her to relax and enjoy the sunshine. I just hoped that today wouldn’t be any different, but considering how quickly gossip spread in this town, I was a bit worried that she would already be facing the cruel stares and whispers. I was nursing a cup of coffee when I heard the telltale sounds of the mailman dropping our mail off in the box. Within a few minutes, a letter was in my hand. Without thinking, I opened it, my eyes widening upon reading its contents. Dear Olivia, I wish I were writing to you under happier circumstances. Our family is in deep pain. Ryan suffered a horrific car accident, and it’s uncertain whether or not he will pull through. Given the gravity of our situation, and the uncertainty of Ryan’s fate, we urge you to contemplate our family’s future. It’s no secret that Elliot