Heidi stood outside her balcony, one hand on the railings and the other holding the letter she had avoided reading for almost a week. She looked at the bird who had happily perched itself on the nest it had made. She hoped Nicholas wouldn't find it so that he could kill it for his amusement. Looking down at the letter, she read the content for the fourth time.
'To my dear daughter Heidi,
It had been quite some time since you last visited Woville and as you remember, your sister Nora's birthday is approaching this week. I understand it is difficult with the rules the council has set but we all wish you could come here to celebrate your sisters day. Even a day would be enough. It would make her and everyone happy. I hope to see your presence.
Love father.'
