Dear Holy Rome,

I miss you. Every day, the pain in my chest becomes worse. Miss Elizabetta says it's because my heart is breaking. I really hope not, because then they'd have to cut me open to put it back together. And that sounds painful.

It's been a few years now… and you're still not back. I don't know how much longer it'll be, but I really hope you come home soon. I miss you. A lot.

Austria told me the other day that you weren't coming back. Oh, Holy Rome, tell me it isn't true? Please! I need you to come back! My heart aches every day without you, and my eyes keep crying! I miss you so much; the way your blue eyes would sparkle when we painted by the river, the way your hair always ruffled in the spring breeze. I miss your laugh, your kindness. I've forgotten the sound of your voice, and I cry myself to sleep every night, holding the painting of you.

I've grown taller. And Miss Elizabetta says I won't fit in her dresses for very much longer. Mister Rodrich says he's going to make me wear boys clothes from now on. I get sad at the thought; you always said I looked pretty in my dresses. I want to remain as you liked for a bit longer.

I always wonder, Holy Rome, do you ever think about me? I never stop thinking about you. Sometimes it affects my work, and Mister Gilbert laughs at me for being a failure. He's not a very nice person.

Anyways, do you think about me? Oh, Holy Rome, I hope you do. I hope you think about our afternoon walks, and the way the sun always made the valley sparkle. I hope you remember my laugh, and our first kiss by the hill. I hope you hold the deck brush I gave you and imagine it's me on those lonely nights.

But, most of all, I hope you miss me. I hope you miss the way we used to spend our days, and I hope you remember the way I look, and the sound of my voice. I hope you never forget, Holy Rome, because you mean more to me than life itself. I would never know what to do if I lost you. You're my everything, and I hope you know this, wherever you are.

And, who knows. Maybe one day, we'll see each other again! And we'll eat sweets and dance, just like I promised.

I must go now, Holy Rome, for it is late and Mister Rodrich has work for me in the morning. I hope you get this, and remember… I miss you. I'll always remember, and I hope you do, too. I love you with all my heart, Holy Rome, no matter how much it's "breaking." I will always be yours, and only have love for you.

Until we meet again,

Italy.