She walked away from me on a Sunday morning and the pain lay on my chest like a ton of bricks.

“I love you,” I had said. I heard the birds in the trees. “I love you.” She didn’t respond. “I love you…why won’t you say it back?” I start to cry. She stares ahead. I can’t find the one I loved.

She sleeps in the other room, away from me. I lie awake, drowning.

Someone gently taps me. I look up. She looks different but she looks like the one I loved. She smiles at me and my heart melts with warmth.

The Memory: I’m sorry I hurt you. I just don’t know how else to deal with the pain. I love you, so much. I hope you know that.

Me: You do?

The Memory: Yes, always. You will always be mine.

Me: Do you remember all the things we did and the places we went, and how much I loved you?

The Memory: Yes, and I’ll treasure those moments forever. I remember everything. I love you, so much. Don’t ever forget that.

Me: I love you too.

I fall asleep.