I must admit this may be wildly out of character for me, as I do not typically read Witch Weekly but one was left open and your letter caught my eye. I do suppose I would like to inquire as to what about a companionship that will not lead to marriage is what you are looking for? It is something I have often thought about for myself as well, but being a young woman did not think would be afforded to me without much scrutiny. My situation is... unusual, but that could be why your advertisement struck a chord. I find myself lonely, but not for romance, simply for someone to talk to.

I do hope you write back.

I can understand your struggle probably better than I would like to think, or could put into so many words myself. Though I have not crossed a family firmly off the list, it is not something I think I should do. Which I suppose is not too far off from your thoughts on the matter, it seems.

For me it feels almost irresponsible, as I have traits a child would certainly inherit, traits I struggle with, and something I would hate to force upon to a child like it was forced upon me. It gets better with each generation however, and I am often alone in my perception of the circumstances from those like me, so it is hard to truly commit to a certain future over another. I find myself content, fulfilled even, by my work, so perhaps it won't even be an issue of the future, instead, stuck in past, learning from previous mistakes and heartbreak.

It all sounds quite contrite, now that I read it back to myself, but I agree the anonymity provides a sense of ease. Indeed letters circumvent my biggest struggle. I hope it isn't too confusing.

What is it you would like your aromantic connection to look like, given the chance?

My apologies for the delay in response, I am certain you can ascertain as to why, but considering my profession is in the healing arts, it's been a busy week. A long, traumatizing, existential, week.

I relish in the distraction of your letter, even if it is only temporary. Families are complicated. I can relate there as well. At least you feel as though you belong with them, I cannot say the same. My father of course, adores as much as he can, but my stepmother and half-siblings are another story. It is perhaps why I do not think passing this curse along is wise, but also why I spend so much time at work; at least there I am useful.

I think I too would like the opportunity to have an outlet for the more in depth discussions. I enjoy the speed with which letters allow one to think before putting quill to paper and phrase exactly what it is they would like to say, rather than the immediate response required in conversation.

As it seems we are in agreement on the matter, I should think I would like to go first. All I have known since graduating is my work, it keeps me going. The attacks on the Thames have me questioning everything about it. I was an utter disaster, I was completely overwhelmed by the chaos and the sheer volume of patients and I lost my decorum. I do not work in an emergent ward typically, and if there are emergencies it is one at a time. I have known resources, my colleagues, my wits about me. How am I supposed to call myself a healer when I cannot do it in such situations like that? It leaves me questioning my direction and my usefulness in the future.

I hope I have not started out too intensely, but it feels better getting it off my chest.