No matter how tired I was, there were nights when sleep completely eluded me. Moments spent with Derek haunted me. Is he safe at The Shade? If he is, why hasn't he tried to get me back? Is he even thinking about me?
Sometimes, I'd get so overwhelmed with the questions, I could barely breathe. I would then hold the diamond pendant he gave me for my birthday, thumbing along its fine edges, drawing comfort from the promise that came with it: "I want you to have it. Wear it always. It will remind you of me. Take it as a promise from me—a promise that I will find a way to be with you."
I didn't know where he was or if he was in danger. I couldn't understand why he thought it best to leave without even saying goodbye, but I was sure of one thing… I could never doubt his love for me. That was the hope that carried me to the next day.
