#thomas wallis

Dearest Name,

My intentions are not to frighten you, so I earnestly apologize if that is what I’ve done. In advance, I wish to state that no matter how you respond to this letter, I will respect your desires, so you needn’t worry.

To you, this is a confession. My looks may reflect youth, but I have been alive for quite some time, in a sense. My own hand stilled my breath long ago, and for that my punishment has been eternal unlife, a damnation. For so long I’ve lived thinking it a curse. If it has led me to you, however, perhaps is is rather a blessing.

No one has captured me the way you have. Your radiant smile almost wills my heart to beat again, and your gentle voice has brought color back into my life after walking with my head down in a world of grey.

This must seem sudden, as we have only shared a single conversation… but I can’t get you out of my mind. Months ago, as I lamented my current work in your university’s library, you heard me reading aloud on the other side of a bookcase. I described myself as a writer, told you of my ideas, and you encouraged me.

You spoke softly, kindly. You stayed with me until one of your fellows drew your presence away, though I cannot blame them for wanting your company. I cannot remember such a time before that I have felt so much like someone cared about what I had to say.

I have not felt like myself in several hundred years. That short time I spent with you made me feel like me again.

Ever since then, I have found myself hoping we would meet again. It seems luck was on my side that day, and never again, so I have tried to seek you out.

But my courage is laughable, for I can seem to bring myself no closer than a glance should I find you meeting my eyes. I appear to have grown quite shy as the years have passed.

This is my last effort before my bravery runs dry. Should it please you, I will be sitting by that same bookcase this evening. If you don’t wish to meet, I understand, and I will have taken my leave by 12 A.M.

In any case, no matter what your choice will be, I hope this letter finds you well, and should I never see you again, I pray all the best for you.