[backdated to February 28, because I have no idea what day of the week it is and totally forgot and will be fixing that]
[Left at the foot of Tristan's bed in the late afternoon, with little charmed, silent fireworks in various colors]
Dearest Tristan,
There's a reason it's late, darling, I promise. The contents of the chest weren't ready until just a couple of hours ago, which is what happens sometimes when you have things made, I suppose. I really hope you like it; I admit I'm not sure, but the lady and I worked on it.
The chest, too, is yours -- redone in the shop, so you wouldn't see me working on your gift. It's cedar, and it smells good, and I've added some charms and can add more if you want.
I love you, darling. You're my dearest everything, and I know I've been absent a lot lately, but between work and private freaking out, I haven't been the greatest company. But you'll find something else in there that I hope will help a little, too.
Happy happy happy birthday!
Love,
PandaInside the
cedar chest is a voucher to a private ship cruise either in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean to be used in the next year, for at least two people; a hand written note attached to the top adds:
I've talked to your keeper, and he cleared this for me so long as you/I give him an itinerary.Also inside is
handmade quilt with various cheering and comforting and sleeping charms, mild and helpful, worked into it. A few of the fabric swaths can be traced back to robes or fabrics from things from a happier time of their childhood.