"It's over? Isn't it?" I dropped my head and looked to the cold floor. "I can't believe how long it took me to believe it. I mean, I knew when it happened, but it didn't sink in until now."

There was no response.

"I won't hurt myself. I won't blame myself. I will carry on. I just wonder how many times I'll look back along the way."

"As many times as you need to."

The tightness in my chest intensified. My breathing was shallow, but not rapid, like the effort was minimal. "I kept telling myself to be prepared for it, but when it finally happened I was dumbstruck. Yet I knew what was coming. How can that be?"

"It's a strange matter, young one."

"Aye," I muttered, "it is."

"..."

"..."

"Come. Time to go home. There will be others. I promise."

"Okay."