Dear Severus, October 9th, 1978
I know that we haven't spoken in a while, through word-of-mouth or written correspondence, and I know that it was mostly my fault. And I also know that why you have no reason to do me any favors, I would appreciate it if you would write me back.
You see, Severus, while we cannot be friends in the public eye (since everyone already knows about the ending of our friendship from back in fifth year, and because they might mock me because of it), I think maybe we should be friends in private. We can speak through letters, because while words cannot be re-heard, letters can be re-read.
I will not tell anyone of the letters if you don't. I am truly sorry that things have to be this way, because I wish we could go back to the way things used to be before that day in fifth year...
So, with the end of this letter drawing near, let me present you with a question: Severus, would you be my secret-pen-pal only best friend?
Always,
Lily E.
Dear Lily, October 20th, 1978
Yes, I think I would like to be your Secret-Pen-Pal-Only-Best Friend, as long as you would like to be mine. I am sorry that it took me so long to write back, as I know very well that you have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of this letter. When I first received your letter, I was in shock, and I didn't quite know how to respond.
Truth be told, Lily, I didn't know if I wanted to respond. But I re-read your letter several times and you were right: it is so much better than spoken words. I fear that if I were to tuck the letter away, save for the twenty times I were to open, read, and close the letter per day, it might fall apart very soon, so I will be careful.
I miss you, Lily. Please right back soon.
Always,
Severus