The Darkness Lurking Within

I have a novel in progress based on a short story previously written that takes the characters further into their story. I am near the end of the novel and there is darkness within the two lead characters due to circumstances in their lives that is going to lead to a shocking conclusion to this novel but it is the only conclusion for them...and I am dragging my heels about writing that ending.

I read that J. K. Rowling killed off a Harry Potter character and it was a difficult decision, a difficult thing to write.

I can believe it. For a writer it is as if we give birth to these characters, breathe life into them, direct their steps, give them moral fiber and a good conscience...but sometimes they are fatally flawed and we are helpless to save them no matter how hard it wrenches our hearts to end their suffering.

I've had a few sleepless nights thinking about the conclusion of this book, and I'm still not psychologically prepared to write that ending...maybe one day, but not right now.