A few hours ago, it dawned on me.

I never loved her.

And while it’s a bit of a shock, it’s a pleasant one. It’s a release. And, to be blunt, a relief. I’m not bitter, mind. Just honest. There were good times, there were bad times. Times when we ran through the street laughing in the dead of night because we were just happy to be alive. And the times we’d sit on the end of a phone to each other, staring daggers at the other over the wire.

All I’ve got left to say is I hope you’re happy. And I mean that with not an ounce of malice in my voice. Richard Shindell had it right. All I want to know is, are you happy. I certainly hope he was worth leaving me for. It’d suck if he wasn’t. But since you’ve been gone, I’ve met so many people who’ve inspired me in ways that you couldn’t dream of. I’ve met people who I’ll treasure for the rest of my life. We both knew we’d grow apart, and grow older. I’ve grown up, I hope you have, too. And the tape you sent back? I lit it, and let it burn to ash in a can in the garden.

Though I know it’s hard to tell
I hope that what’s-his-name treats you well
I still maintain that he’s a bum
But it’s your money - have some fun