Theodore,
Yesterday, a letter arrived at my new home. I couldn't take my mind off it: would the Laytons reply to me, or would they refuse to say anything? Deep down, I knew they wouldn't leave me in the dark. I couldn't believe they'd allow another boy to suffer the same fate as their adoptive child. Being left alone truly is a burden, of course they know that. They wouldn't allow me to suffer more than I already do – or did, for that matter.
When I finally got the chance to open it, I was relieved. I truly was – it was a relief so pure, so heartwarming. It was one big decision to make, and now, I've had my answers.
They were so kind to me, but I know they will never tell you about my letter. It has been tough. Yes, I broke the promise I'd made to myself, but now it's fine. I mustn't cry anymore, whatever happens, I know he's happy and I must let it him be. Yet, I cried. Some tears ran down my cheeks and fell on the paper. It started to erase some of the ink.
I will always remember this moment. The moment when I read that you didn't remember me. I felt like it was obvious to anybody but me. In truth, as always, I was expecting that kind of answer. What matters the most to me is that you are finally happy. I won't let anything nor anyone get in the way of that happiness; even if it means that I have to rule out the possibility of ever crossing your path again.
The last thing the Sycamores' had expected was to see a letter from Hershel Bronev/Desmond Sycamore. The first was a name they hadn't forgotten, and the second was one they couldn't know. They have always thought that I would never have the courage to contact them, nor any opportunity to do so. I didn't think I would have the courage, either.
They finally shed light on the main question I had been pondering for years: why did it have to be one child? Their justification does not fully satisfy me, but it's enough for now. It seems they were faced with one major problem: money. They didn't have enough to raise two children, so they made a sacrifice and let me on my own, because I'm older. I still have some doubts about this, though – I am sure they wanted to adopt the 'smarter' one. You were still very young; you had only been attending school for one year, whereas many people in the village knew that I was a very brilliant kid, so they must have heard about me.
In the end, money may be a little lacking at times, but I'm not convinced this is the only reason.
In any case, I am so glad to know that you're happy in your new little house in the center of London. The life here amazes you, they say. I would love to see that with my own eyes. But now, there's nothing more I can do… or maybe I must change everything? Maybe I must violate their demand, and travel to London myself?
They trust me. They know I wouldn't be able to do that, because I'm aware of the pain you would have to experience then. I cannot ever let that happen.
I can finally move on knowing you're feeling great, surrounded by people who love you and care about you. I only wish I could tell you how much I care about you, too.
Your brother, Desmond/Hershel