To my sweet Josie

How are you? Are things at home going well with Dianne? I hope it's not too hard on you and mom to manage the house yourselves, but you're a big girl. I'm sure you've done beautifully.

You see, Daddy has to go somewhere far away, for a very, very long time. I know you saw me leave the house during the snowstorm last month, and I'm very sorry I couldn't take you with me. In the end, that was pretty bold of you. Mom would definitely freak and worry if you've caught a cold like she usually would. Hahaha.

I guess I'll miss you and Dianne's birthdays, and I was so looking forward to them too! Sorry, I'm not a very good dad, am I?

Anyway, here's something to make up for it! The little fellow that gave you this letter is CH-103, a Delta Droid. You told me once that Dianne has always wanted a Delta Droid, didn't you? This tiny metal ball is quite energetic, and its wings are made of carbon fibre - pretty cool right? It likes EEA batteries, they're the blue ones in case you've forgotten. Yes, I am still sassing you about your engineering grades. A dad's got to do some teasing now and then, you know we can't let mom have all the fun!

If mom forgets, help her remind Dianne to brush her teeth and eat her vegetables. This reminder applies to you too Josie, carrots are good for you. Also, please be careful not to spill any cocoa over the bed. Chocolate stains are a bit hard to wash out and CH-103 is too small to help much with the laundry. Actually, calling it Chloe might be easier. Robot names are such a mouthful, aren't they?

Do try to be a good girl and listen very closely to your mom. I know the howls from the forest are scary, but you have to be brave, for your mom and your sister. You're a big girl now, almost 8! Big girls are brave! Remember, even if you're feeling lonely, just know that Daddy will always love you no matter where I am.

Now, mom may tell you to do some things soon, and they may be a teensy bit strange, but you know mom loves you and you have to trust her, no matter what. Don't think too much of it, and whatever happens, stick close to Dianne. She still wets the bed at night and isn't a big girl yet. You have to protect her.

Daddy loves you, Josephine. I wish I could get Chloe to give you a hug for me, but unfortunately, Delta Droids don't have arms. Well, just know that you and Dianne will always be the best thing that's happened to me in my whole life.

Lots of love,

Dad.

Oh, and one last thing. Would you please do daddy a favour and show the message below to mom? Bonus points if you get it to her as soon as possible.

SURIV ENROBRIA, NOLAVA SAH NELLAF.

EKAT EHT SDIK DNA NUR.