The Hidden Palace (The Golem and the Jinni, #2)

by Helene Wecker

He’d given her his silences, and she’d filled them with her fears. And perhaps it was true, what he’d said on the rooftop—they simply weren’t good for each other, and never had been. But we could’ve tried harder, she thought. Both of us.

They descended to the waiting train. He set his suitcase on the platform, and at last took her in his arms. “I wish that I had done so many things differently,” he murmured. “I wish that we both had,” she replied. “Maybe we’ll have a chance to try again, someday.” He nodded. “Until then,” he said, “would you allow me to renew my promise?” “No,” she said. “I want to make a different one.” He pulled back and looked at her, puzzled. “I love you,” she told him. “And I always will.” He went still in surprise. Then he closed his eyes, and gathered her close. “I love you,” he whispered. “And I always will.” They stood together for a long moment. Then, slowly, they let go. He picked up his suitcase, lifted a hand in farewell, and boarded the train.