She sat on her familiar hard cot, holding the envelope. It had been slit open, the letter resting inside. CYA staff read all incoming and outgoing mail. Laura turned the envelope over and over, afraid to take out the piece of paper. So much in her life had gone wrong. She’d long ago given up on God. Now she was asking Him to help her just this once. In desperation, Laura had gone so far as to make a pact with God. If He would just bring her father back to her, she’d believe in Him again. She took a deep breath and slid out the piece of paper that could change her life. Dearest Laura, I can’t tell you how happy I was to see your letter. I’ve read it over and over, and still carry it in my pocket. There is so much to tell you. So much to talk about. I just can’t begin to cover it on paper. Years ago you told me not to come see you unless I believed in your innocence. Now I’m coming to see you. I’ve been in contact with CYA and learned about the visitation process.
