Kane,

I'm not sure how to start this; I hope you're OK.  When I left you were in a state, I didn't get informed much of your condition.  I'm so sorry I left you, but I couldn't cope on my own, I had to call my parents.  I was so scared when you were shot, I felt as if my whole world came crashing down.  As you can imagine, being back home is terrible, no one speaks to me except Max, and that's only because he doesn't know the full story.  Dani found out, she's moved in with Josh, Jade's moved into her room and I haven't seen my Dad since I got back.  It's all very fun.  I still don't regret running away; I wish I were still with you now.  We were having a lot of fun, I still feel closer to you than anyone though you are far away and I miss you.  I'm not sure what the future holds for us, but I hope I'll see you again, soon…

Kirsty paused, almost in tears.  She couldn't end the letter already, there was so much more that had to be said.  She took a deep breath, composed herself and wrote.

Sorry.  I can't end there, I need to say so much but don't know where to start, so forgive me if I don't make much sense.  Everyone says I'm wrong and selfish, and maybe I am, but I can't help who I fall in love with.  I can understand why they'd hate you, but they can't understand why I don't.  Flynn said it was trauma bonding, but I think it's more than that.  When we were in the bush together, I saw a different side to you, a more human side.  For once I had an insight, one that changed my life.  I can't ever excuse what you did, but I do realise that people shouldn't be judged for their past mistakes, after all, I'm still getting stick for what I've done in the past.  It doesn't solve anything.  You've made me happy Kane, I won't forget you and all those things you did for me, out in the bush, on the run. You are the kind, considerate person I still love. 

Forever

Kirsty

P.S Reply if you can

She signed off and no sooner had this happened, there was a knock at the door.

"Can I come in?"  It was her father.

"Wait, "said Kirsty.  She put the letter in an envelope, sealed it and placed in under her pillow.  "Come in."

Rhys braced himself; he hadn't spoken for Kirsty for three months, why would she listen any more now.  He'd promised to Shelley that he wasn't going to shout.  He was to be calm, say what he felt, and explain the consequences.  He opened the door, stared at his daughter for a moment, then spoke.

"Kirsty, we need to talk.  You can't hide in your room forever, I expect you to make an effort to be a part of the family you're trying to ruin."

"I'm not trying to ruin this family!"

Rhys was about to shout, but then lowered his voice.  "You must learn to think about the consequences of your actions.  You will stay downstairs at all times, you may only go upstairs' to sleep, dress and wash.  If you need to go to your room it will not be in excess of five minutes or else you'll find yourself going back to school."

Kirsty was in no mood to argue.  Resigned to her fate, she went downstairs.