9:05 am, June 21, 2011
I blink the salty air from my eyes and shiver as another gust of wind tousles my hair. It feels like I’ve been standing here on the ledge for hours, but I know it has more likely only been a few minutes. I shake my head to clear my thoughts, but each scene I’ve just relived continues to resonate in my mind. Other moments of the last few years want to creep in, but I squelch them as they surface. I don’t want to think anymore.
I lean forward, almost hypnotized by the motion of the water. My feet move, inching me closer to the edge. The wind carries the song of the ocean, and inside that sweet melody is my true name. This is not the name my adoptive parents stole from another to place on me, but somehow I know it is mine. Time seems to stop as my breath catches. I close my eyes, hoping the call will be enough to sway me, and let me forget all of these bittersweet memories.
The toes on my left foot hang over the cliff’s rim, startling my eyes open again. I push myself to imagine the possibilities before me. As I continue my internal debate, I wonder if I’ve been missed. How that thought never occurred to me before is a mystery. Until now I’ve only considered the people I would be leaving behind. Do I have a family that’s been waiting all these years for me to return? Somehow this idea blossoms, strengthening my resolve. I’m going to do it. I’m going to jump.
The story continues in Volume 2. Look for the second half of the story on December 10, 2013!
Acknowledgments:
Writing Evelyn’s story has been an amazing journey, and I couldn’t have done it without the incredible creative energy of my husband. Matt, your illustrations inspired me to craft a tale that would match the simple beauty of the pencil and inked diary entries. I’m so proud of what we’ve made together.
In addition to a fabulous creative partner at home, I have the best BETA reader on the planet… Shelley Gaddis, you’ve read every word I’ve ever written, and I hope you will always be the first one to look at my writing. Your encouragement and constant enthusiasm helped me push through when I was ready to quit. I cannot thank you enough!
A huge thanks goes out to my other early readers: Jeannine Everette, Willow Renner, and Maria Green. Your advice was invaluable, and I listened to every word you said (even if I didn’t end up taking it) so thank you.
Finally, a thank you to my fans. It never would have occurred to me to make this into a published, finished product without your support. I love you all!
About the Author:
Until December 2012, Sarah LaFleur was a working pianist and teacher. In the midst of a career change, she started writing a story. Less than 17 weeks later she completed her first full-length novel currently being shopped around for traditional publication.
Who Is Evelyn Dae? was born when Sarah decided to launch her writing persona (lafleurdeplume) on social media. By early September 2013, she connected with a wonderful community of writers and readers who convinced her to publish the website story as an ebook.
Sarah continues to write, and has several projects in the works including a sequel to her first novel, an adult science fiction book that stands alone, and multiple guest blog spots. She lives in the greater Chicago metropolitan area with her children, husband, cats, and piano.
To join her emailing list, visit https://lafleurdeplume.com
About the Illustrator:
Illustrator Matthew LaFleur plays the role of Evelyn Dae's hand as she draws and muses about her life in her sketchbook. Some of his past clients include Arcade Brewery, Sterling Publishing, American Bar Association, Grainger Industrial Supply, FlatTop Grill, and The Wall Street Journal.
Matthew enjoys doodling with his two daughters and collaborating with his wife near Chicago.
To see more of his artwork visit:
https://www.lafleurillustration.com and find him on Twitter as @DoodleMatt.
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