Faith Bentley, “Love Ablaze”

Love Ablaze

Faith Bentley

Darn ship. I was thrown forward as the ship rocked back and forth, abused by the harsh waves surrounding it. My inkwell overturned and spilled like black poison dripping over the edges of my desk. Straightening up, I sat down to complete the task at hand. Dear Amelia, I miss the light that is your beauty. I cannot tell you how much I love you, my dear girl. Do you miss me? Things are going well here. I know you are worried, but I beg of you dearest, take heart. For I could not be in a safer place than I am now. The ship is absolutely remarkable and incredibly structured. I dipped my pen and looked around at the massive structure that was to transport me across the Atlantic. It was much safer for me here than it would have been if I stayed in London. Especially with that bit of unfortunate news I had received before I left. We just left Ireland; I cannot wait to arrive in New York. I am thrilled to see America in real life. Don’t worry about our ‘little problem’. I promise that we will get married as soon as this ship makes its way back to London. Forget what anyone else says. I know your mother has harassed you to no end, but just tell her that we are passionately and unapologetically in love.

If anyone had ever experienced ‘true love’, I had no idea. Amelia seemed to be rather smitten with me though. I smirked. The ship rattled. Maybe she won’t understand the burning feelings that lighten my dark soul, but I hope you feel the same fire that sets my heart ablaze for you. Truthfully, all that is of significant consequence is how we feel about each other, right? How did I feel about Amelia? She was beautiful, smart, witty, and kind. But she was also pregnant, and I had no intentions of marrying the damsel. I shuddered. Many a great man had lost his wits when he reduced himself to such a basic arrangement as marriage. Well dearest, I must be going now. This letter should get to you soon. The post office on this ship is massive, much like everything else. All my love, Wilhelm I waited a few moments for the ink to dry as I pulled out the old wooden box underneath the desk. Grabbing an envelope, I folded the letter and placed it inside.

Later, I would go to the post office, but now I had plans to dance with that beautiful woman who had made eyes at me on the dock earlier. I pulled on my jacket. The boat rocked. Silly Amelia, there was no better place to be than the R.M.S. Titanic.