Polaroids

I'll never stop loving you.

Dear Bryan,

I'm sorry for not writing. So much has been happening lately, I'm struggling to find time for myself. You remember Kelsey, don't you? Of course you do, it hasn't been that long.
Do you remember that day when we had dinner at Kelsey's place? With her mother and father? Kelsey's father passed away yesterday, despite battling cancer so bravely. We're all so proud of him, and I'm sure you are too.
And Bryan, do stop saying sorry. I'll never stop loving you, no matter what you do or have done, even if you never tell me why you had to leave.
Your loving Hailey

'Hailey dearest, thank you for coming.' Kelsey's mother Chelsea, threw me into an embrace. 'Of course, Mrs Johnson.' She had been crying, and her mascara was on the verge of running. I felt so bad for her, but parts of me knew how she felt. I pushed past the other miserable mourners, as I knew my crying would not do anyone much good.

As I wandered home in my black satin dress, I passed a shrunken figure, in a dark hoodie and baggy jeans. 'Hailey.' the figure said, tossing his mop of dark hair. I stopped in my tracks, and cautiously turned to face him.

He had stopped leaning against the wall now, and had his feet firmly planted to the pavement. Slowly, he pulled the hood away from his face. I recognised him. One of Bryan's friends from work.

'Hailey,' he said again, 'I'm not sure if you remember me, but we met once. I'm Alec.' he took a step towards me and outstretched his hand.

I hesitated, before shaking his hand. 'You know, I've been dying to find out why Bryan left. All I know, is that is was to protect you.' he spat the words out in disgust. Startled, I leaped backwards. He saw my terrified expression, before hastily adding, 'But of course it wasn't your fault. It was all his choice.' he said, biting his lip.

'I still have no idea what happened. He told me nothing. He said it was for the best.' I said bluntly, turning on my heel and walking into the distance.

'Hailey,' he shouted, 'If you find anything out, you'll tell me, right?'

I pretended not to hear, and continued to walk down the street. Angry tears, filled with regret and misery, began to well in my eyes. My loving boyfriend who I had loved unconditionally for five years, since we were 18, was gone and I had no idea why. Why wasn't I doing anything about it?

A complete wreckage, I stumbled into my now silent and empty apartment. The only blink of life that remained was Kat. This was it. I had to find out why Bryan left.