Page 76 of Savage Princess

If you’re reading this, I’ve left for New York. I’m sorry for the early departure, but I think we said everything that could be said last night. I meant it all—you deserve better than me, better than someone carrying the weight of a former life on his shoulders, who can’t be all the things to you that you should have.

Despite that, I do care for you, Elena. I think you know that. And I want to leave you with that, at least, so that you don’t wonder. In time, you’ll see that it’s better this way as I do. You’ll find more happiness without me than you would by my side, even if you don’t realize that now.

I wouldn’t change what happened. But it needs to remain in the past. I want only the best for your future—and I hope you understand that’s why I’m gone.

We need to not see each other again. In time, it will hurt less. I promise you that.

Goodbye, Elena. I’m grateful to have known you.

–Levin

I read the letter, and read it again. And then, with it clutched in my hand, I sink to the floor and start to cry.

I’d believed for so long that something could change. That in the end, he might stay.

But he’s gone.

And now I’m very sure that I’ll never see him again.