Sara excused herself from the table and went to the bathroom where she could read the letter in private. She normally would have just waited until she was at home, but she truly wanted to know what Catherine had to say.
The letter read:
Sara,
I don't know where to begin. I know we got off on the wrong foot and I apologize. That was totally my fault. So, please try to accept my apology.
You have proven to me, time and time again, how great of a CSI you are. We really did need someone like you on the team. Someone who truly understood what we were fighting for is what we needed.
It had been hard on me, being the only woman on the team for so long. There had been one several years earlier, but she had left after only about six months. Then Holly Gribbs showed up. At first, I was a bit pleased but that feeling didn't last long. She wasn't even sure she wanted to do this. And well, you know what happened to her.
But, know this. I am sure you are 20 times better than she would have been. I just didn't see the drive in her. I spoke to her about puzzles, I remember.
Sara, you were one of the most difficult puzzles I have ever faced. I didn't know how to even start with you. I could see your determination from the very beginning. I want to apologize for all the cracks I have ever made to you. I admit some of the things you said to me were hurtful and I reacted in anger. I realize now that you didn't mean to hurt me because now I understand where you were coming from.
Sara, I know it's a lot to ask, but I would like to ask for your forgiveness. I would like for our friendship to grow. The team has been through some tough times and I am sure there will be more to come. But together, we can make it through. That's what friends are for. You don't have to be alone anymore. I promise that you can trust me and I will always give you a safe place when you need it.
With love,
Catherine
Sara sat there with tears rolling down her cheeks. She hadn't even realized Catherine had come in and sat down beside her. Catherine gently reached up and moved some hair out of Sara's eyes.
Sara reacted by flinching. "Wh- Wh- What are you doing here?!" Sara said startled by the gentle touch.
"Well, I was just coming to check on you. I thought you might have gotten sick or something."
"Catherine?"
"Hmm?"
"Thank you."
Catherine sat back down next to Sara after getting some tissues for Sara to wipe her eyes. "Sara, I really do want our friendship to grow. I like having you around. You are smart and give a lot of thought to the people around you. And, hey? Who else is going to stick up for us girls?"
Sara giggled and smiled one of her genuine 'Sara Smiles' as the group had dubbed them.
"How about we get back out there and show these guys how much fun it is to hang out with two lovely intelligent women?"
"Alright!" Sara, said smiling.
