Prologue
The wind was rustling through the palm trees, and the sun seemed to shine brighter than it normally did. Nick sat on the porch, reading to his small child.
“Katie, listen here. Your mommy wrote something for you.” Nick said softly.
Dearest Katie Lynne,
Today was one of those days that I wish you were bigger. The sun was shining so bright, and there were big fluffy white clouds in the sky. The children were running down the beach. I wish you and I could do that. When you get older, ask your daddy to show him what I gave him on our wedding day. You were there…but weren’t born yet. Tell him to show you the pretty wooden box…the one that sits on the dresser next to his bed. Ask him to tell you what each thing inside the box means.
Well, I guess I better get going. I hope that you are being good for daddy. He loves you very much. When he feels down, give him and hug and tell him you love him. Be strong, because he needs you. Oh yeah, and when you get to make sandcastles in the sand…tell daddy that I said to get the box out of the garage with your name on it. There is something special in there for you, for your sandcastles. Enjoy!
Nick, I know you are reading this to her…so, when the time is right, could you do what I asked? I am sure that you are doing a terrific job with Katie. You are the best daddy in the world! I love you with all my heart!!! Take care, and know that I am with you…always.
Love always and forever,
Heather Lynne :o)
Nick sat there, puzzled by all the directions. Why had Heather been so persistent that he tell Katie all these things? He knew that Heather didn’t want Katie to forget about her. But this was different. Nick sat there, flipping through the journal, looking for some answer.
“Heather, I know you are listening. Why? What is it you want me to find?! Please help me! God, I miss you so much…I just want to hold you, and touch you…but you are so far away. I need you so much.” Nick said as a few lone tears dripped down his cheeks.
Nick had been doing so well for the last few months. He finally had emerged from his house…for a least a few minutes at a time. The guys had persuaded him to come to the studio to finish the recordings for the new album. Jive was getting anxious about the release…and because they understood that Nick was going through so much, they allowed the album to be pushed to the end of November. They only had a few more songs to finish…and then they could start touring.
Nick sat in the swing…staring out at the ocean, as his 5 month old daughter
sat in her walker, "gurgling" with herself. Time was moving on, and
so was his life. But, the fact that Heather was no longer with him,
always remained painful in his heart.