Read Eyes

My Dearest Uche,

Today, during our video call, I noticed your eyes were red. When I asked you about it, you said that’s how I’d know you’re sick. I can’t help but think back to when we first met—you didn’t have red eyes then because you were on leave from work, finally enjoying some peace after being so stressed. Now your eyes are constantly red, and it scares me.

I can’t bear to think about your health suffering, especially now that I’ve just begun to imagine a life with you. I want you to know that you’ll never have to work so hard that it makes you sick—not for me, not for us. I’ll learn to live on less if it means having you healthy and happy. You know how much I love my nice things, but I love you so much more than anything I’ve ever owned or anyone I’ve ever known.

I admire your dedication and how much you love doing a good job—it’s one of the many reasons I love you. But I don’t want to see you hurt or suffering. I’m counting down the days until you can leave that job behind and come to America with me. I know you’ll work hard here too, but we’ll have each other to share the load.

Until then, please take care of yourself—for you, for me, and for the future we’re building together.

Love always,
Victoria