she has nothing to fear

I truly believed she was out of my life forever. I never thought I would have to make this decision. I didn't want her to contact me, never wanted to be surprised by it, but dear God, now that I know, how can I not? She would never know. I don't have to say a word and she would be just as happy as she's always been. Is it really worth upsetting both of our lives and risking making everything worse, just to relieve this horrible pressure of knowing? I looked into it, before, to ease the itch of wondering, and look what it has gotten me.

Of course it's worth it. I would give anything to see my Cosette even just once more, how could you dream of giving up this chance?

I suppose it is better than always wondering.

( Ariel Cohen )

[After a little over a month of trying and failing to convince herself she doesn't care about this, Candace has realized she has to at least make a token attempt at finding out if she ever wants any peace from Fantine.]

I'm looking for a good private investigator, preferably in the New York or D.C. area. It is in regards to a delicate matter, so discretion is of the utmost importance, which is why I am requesting a referral here instead of in my usual venues. If anyone is or knows of such an individual, please contact me via a locked response. Recompense is not an issue.

It's funny how, the more years that pass me by, the longer the New Year's Eve parties seem to stretch on. At least it does make getting home much more exciting than usual - if only it didn't also make traffic more exciting.

The new year is as good a time as any to make new acquaintances, I suppose. I am Candace Naylor, and I'm accompanied by one Fantine of Les Miserables fame. It's a [...] pleasure to meet you all.

( But he was gone when autumn came )