March 27, 2004

Olivia,

Sorry I haven't written back for so long. I've been very busy with mid-terms and, in another month, finals. My first semester teaching has turned out to be not only fun, but quick too!

I'm almost tempted to say "I told you so" about Casey. I know about those cases; I may me dead, but I have kept myself informed. We've actually debated about the school-related case, especially since nearly everyone can relate to Agnes. The other cases did get nationwide attention; some of the kids called her Norman Bates' mom. As for the child smuggling, a lot of us really had no idea that sort of thing was happening. That raised a lot of awareness for us.

Recently, I've been looking at buying a car. Oh yes, where I live I need a car--actually have a car--but the one I'm currently driving I bought hastily when I relocated. Frankly, I don't like it, especially since I took a advanced driving course that taught me a lot about what car can really do. It left me yearning for something sportier, while still fairly fuel-efficient and reliable. My choices range from an early 90s Acura NSX sports car to a Ford Police Interceptor. Oh god, I've become a car nut!

But my first love is still the law. My teaching job has been very rewarding but I'm sad that I can't practice law anymore; I'm always going to miss that. I miss you Olivia; you always had a way to read someone's mind and help them find their courage. I missed those evening drinks that we had together, and the occasional jog through the park. I miss the rest of the squad, especially Munch's witty remarks and conspiracy theories, Huang's calm and reassuring words. Also Finn's tough exterior yet very kind and sensitive side, Don's no-nonsense leadership, and Elliot's stories about his kids. Hell, there are times when I even miss locking horns with the defense attorneys and my old politically driven boss.

Part of me has kept kicking myself for pushing that bastard Zapata too far. If only I had kept my mouth shut, I wouldn't have gotten into the mess that followed. I knew who I was dealing with, and I should've been more careful. That car bomb should've given me a hint to back off.

Despite leaving my life behind, it's never far away. Recently, a student of mine had confided in me that her boyfriend had raped her. When she broke down, I almost picked up the phone to have you and Elliot pick the guy up. Then I remembered that I wasn't an ADA anymore. Instead, I made sure that she got counseling and pressed charges--off campus. I've been quietly starting to get involved with the surrounding women's crises centers, and even gave some legal advice.

My love life has slowly started to bloom again. A few weeks ago I met a guy named Teagan who's an IT Director for one of the school districts. He's definitely not like some of the snobs that I dated back in the old days. He listens to me, cares about my opinions and he made me laugh. None of my old boyfriends had genuinely made me laugh before. So far we've had dinner a few times, and watched a few movies at his place. It hasn't turned really serious yet but I learned he's a great kisser :-).

If nothing else, he's definitely proof that there are men worthy of a woman's attention on this planet.

Be well.

Your friend,

Alex