Aftermath Part IX - Letter

[WxMurray 0]

“Wim, you got a package.”

 

“What is it?”

 

His mother glared at him.

 

“Yeah, I know, open it and find out.”

 

He opened the container to find a padd and a bottle of wine. He read the letter stored on the padd.

 

Dear Mr. Murray,

 

We wanted to let you know that we appreciated the time you took to send your condolences. Her death hit us hard, and the traditional Starfleet announcement didn’t really help us any.

 

To be honest, we didn’t really expect to hear from anyone but the Captain. Even though you were her superior officer, Jocelyn had told us that you were only the acting chief of security. Whether that makes a difference, we don’t know. She also told us that you were a relative newcomer to the Reaent, and that the ship’s missions hadn’t given you much time to meet your subordinates. Nevertheless, you seem to have not let that deter you from sending your letter.

 

It took us by surprise when we received an apple with our letter. We couldn’t figure out its significance until we read the letter for the fourth time. We see now that it was a gesture on your part to personalize the whole thing, rather than just send a “you have my condolences” letter.

 

In response and with our gratitude we send you this bottle of Chateau Picard 2348 from one of the finest vineyards in France. We chose the 2348 as it was the year our daughter was born. Drink it in her memory, and drink it during joyous times.

 

We wish you the best in your career.

 

Sincerely,

 

Robin and Katerina Peters

 

Murray smiled as he finished the letter. As he walked off to put the bottle in a safe place, he struggled to hold back the tears that had formed while reading the letter.