*Flannery sits fully upon the bed, her back cushioned with deep duck down pillows and her knees drawn up. A simple book bound in olive green cloth, it's pages of cream parchment roughly cut, lays open upon her lap. Looking about the room a moment, she breathes out slowly and with a quill starts to scratch words to parchment.*
My darling child,
Oh how I have oft' wondered if I should ever meet you. A woman more at ease with steel than a babe. Yet I can confess, although I am yet to see your face, I love you beyond all measure. When I spoke of your arrival to your Father, I had never seen a man filled with such joy. You have bought immense delight to both of us, and we are truly blessed to have you join us. I promise you this, my patience and my heart. I cannot offer you the experience of most women, as I was not raised with the skills of the home. You and I shall learn side by side, and I hope you shall forgive the many mistakes I am likely to make.
*Pauses and lays the quill down, reaching for some water on a nearby table, her face creasing a little in discomfort, she quickly lays against the pillows again with a sigh. Sipping the water, she places her hand on her abdomen, stroking it softly. The discomfort gradually easing, she continues with her writing, resting the water upon the bed, supporting it with her free hand*
I cannot foretell the future, but only mould it to the best of my ability to ensure you a safe and happy life. Regardless of cost, or sacrifice, I will always protect you my child...
*lays the quill on the opposite page and takes another sip of the water before placing it back on the table, feeling another twinge and returning to her former position, she closes her eyes as she waits for it to pass.
