Black Licorice

Chapter One

I had received the tattered envelope a week ago. It read:

Dearest Tessa,

As my best friend it is my duty to help you at a time like this. I am so sorry for your loss Nathan and Aunt Harriet were good people. I'm just so glad you are alright. Tess, you are welcome to stay with me in London for however long you want. The institute has plenty of space, an kind enough company. I am sure everyone will adore you. Please consider,

Jessamine

I folded away the paper into my bag, and stepped onto the sturdy deck of a boat. Today was the day, i thought, that my life is going to change.