A letter from Jun 22, 2026

Dear Dorothy, I began writing this on the day we parted ways. While it feels like we have spoken about so much, there are still things weighing on my heart that went unsaid. I have tried to avoid dealing with these emotions, but I can no longer keep them bottled up. I want to begin by thanking you. Thank you for being the most incredible partner and best friend I could have ever asked for. You always pushed me to grow, and you were a true gift in my life. I carry a deep sense of regret for my mistakes, and I am profoundly sorry for the pain I caused you. I hope that in time, you can forgive me. It feels surreal to contrast where we were with where we are now. We went from sharing beautiful memories—laughing in Cape Town and traveling to Lesotho—to total silence. It also heavy on my heart that I let your 27th birthday pass without a word. I convinced myself that avoiding it would make the healing easier, but I was wrong. I truly hope you had a beautiful birthday. You were right about my family. I finally had that difficult conversation with my mother and sister. I realize now that those who love me will support me, and I have learned to stop letting outside opinions dictate my choices. My greatest regret is that I didn't learn this sooner, and that I didn't fight for you when I had the chance. I am sorry for being so emotionally distant and stuck in my own thoughts. When you told me that I would eventually just end up with a Sotho girl from church, it broke my heart. I never wanted anyone else. You were always enough. I do not expect a response to this, and I completely respect your boundaries. I just could no longer pretend that I don't care. I want nothing but the best for you. I want to see you succeed, achieve everything you have prayed for, and find true happiness again, even if I am not a part of it. Please take care of yourself. With love, Thato