Disclaimer: Don't own.

The grammar errors are intentional as is the style of the piece. Extremely bright for his age or not, I wanted Al's words to reflect his age. Enjoy!!

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Mom,

Sometimes I find it hard to think you were ever real.

I was so young when you died, Mom, and in my innocence, I elevated you on a pedestal. You were the prettiest woman in the world and the kindest. You never turned away a stranger or neighbor in need. You didn't care if they came for a cup of sugar or for a room to rest in for the night. I never saw you turn anyone away.

I could never remember you truly frowning. When Brother and I were bad, your frown always changed into a smile after a while. You had a wonderful smile, Mom. It always seemed to stop my tears. Be it in a thunderstorm or a fever or a scrape, seeing you smile always felt better.

I miss those days, Mom. Those were the days where I felt truly and utterly safe. You made me feel that no matter what I did, you would love Brother and me just the same. Granny Pinako once told me that a mother's job to her kids was to love them unconditionally and continually. You did that, Mom.

Sometimes I find it hard to think you were alive. I ask myself sometimes if you weren't just made up in my mind. That you were just make believe and I made everything about you up. Your smile, your hugs, your voice, scent, your lessons and your apple pies…all made up.

Mom, you've been away for so long. We stopped listening for your footsteps or waiting for you to tuck us in and sing our lullaby about the mice and kitten. You had a pretty singing voice, Mom.

There are times that I think brother and I just made you up. But you know what Mom? Brother and I are trying to correct that. I'll see you soon, Mom…Mommy. I'll see your smile and when you open your eyes, you'll sit up and hug Brother and me, like you used to. You'll call Brother your little man and me your little mouse and we'll sing the 'Penny the Kitten' song for old times sake. (I'm too old to be tucked in now. Teacher says so.)

Just you wait, Mom. Those times when I find it hard to think you were ever real will disappear when Brother and I bring you back. Like we've been working and dreaming to do. Mom. Mama. Mommy. Just you wait.

I love you,

Alphonse Wilbur Elric