Nicki had collapsed on her bed and was beginning to cry when Megan discovesred the manilla envelope of the floor.
"To Nicki"
She opened it and began to read.
"Dear Nicki,
"I'm really sorry it had to be this way. I really loved you. You were like a sister to me. It wasn't until recently that I found out why. We were kindred spirits, you and I. I knew there was a reason the fates brought us together.
"Obviously, you have some questions about what just happened. I may as well tell you that I'm not who you think I am. 10 years ago, the Medallion of Zulo transformed me into a 4 year old girl. And, as you're well aware, the Medallion really likes to go missing (you never did fully explain how you lost it.) My life was horrible. I virtually had to re-learn everything, from walking, to going to the bathroom, to speech. I had to go through school all over again. I was in therapy by the time I was 8, having an identity crisis. By the time I met you, I had already fully accepted who I'd become.
"I think that's part of the reason why I liked you so much right off the bat. I could sense your deep unwillingness to be female. I saw myself in you - and though part of me hoped you'd never give in, most of me just wanted to ease your transition. No, that's too psychological - I didn't literally know what you'd been through, but I could sense it. Until recently it was hard for me to remember my past life.
"Then you mentioned the Medallion and it all came flooding back. That's why I reacted so badly - because the mere mention of it caused all these memories from years ago to come up and remind me of the life I lost. My wife, my job, my kids, all gone. I haven't seen them in so long.
"Like I said, I'm sorry it had to be like this, and I wish there was some other way, but there's not. I had to take your life. It was a move of desperation. It's not spite. I want to make that clear. Nicki, you were one of the best people I've ever met and if we ever meet again, I'll gladly give you the medallion so that you, too, can have a second chance at life. As it is, however, I've got it for safe keeping. I am, however, planning on returning it. There are just a few old scores I've got to settle first.
"I'm so sorry, and I love you.
"Never give up the fight. Never forget who you are.
"Love,
"Carter
"(Katie)"
Nicki was wailing with sobs by the time Megan finished reading. Megan's eyes were tearing up, too.
All day, Nicki wailed, "IT'S NOT FAIR! IT'S NOT FAIR!" in between choking sobs. At one point, she seemed to be retching. "I was so close...!" she'd cry out, then sob some more. Nicki didn't come out of her room for days. Megan had to bring her her meals, and she'd barely eat.
Megan was angry at herself. She'd been so selfish. She got what she'd asked for... but at such a price, it was not worth it.
