Page 559 of Lodestar

Both had my name on them.

“I appreciate the courier service,” I said cheerfully, though there was something weird about getting mail from a dead man.

“I apologize for taking so long to deliver them to you,” Maria admitted rawly. “Bear seemed to think I’d open the safety deposit box as soon as I received the key.”

I hitched a shoulder. “Better late than never. Thanks.”

I wiggled the packets at her then retreated to the sofa, leaving Rachel and Maria to sort out their business.

Retrieving a letter from the envelope, I shifted focus from their conversation and concentrated on what could be Bear’s final words.

As I read, I could feel my heart rate start to increase until, by the end, sweat had beaded on my brow.

Bear hadn't expected to be in a coma before his death.

He'd expected me to get this letteryearsagoand if I had, it'd have...

Christ, it'd have changed everything.

With shaking hands, I reached for my cell.

There was only one thing to do.

Me: Eagle Eyes, I need you to bring Temper Black to me.

Me: Immediately.

Me: Will send coordinates for retrieval as soon as I have them.

Eagle Eyes: On it.

Then, I snapped a picture of the letter and uploaded it into my chat with Rex.

Me: Figured you’d want to know. Bear sent me a letter.

Rex: What?

Me: Read it.

Rex: Thanks, Star.

Me: I’d want to know if there was one last letter floating around from my mom or dad.

*Ten minutes later*

Rex: Holy shit

Me: Yeah, that’s about how I’m feeling right now.

Rex: You need us, we're there.

Me: Appreciate that but I've got this.

Rex: Reel them in, Star.

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CONOR

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