You knew Jason was leaving before he knew himself. You could tell. You always could. You had known him for years, far too long to remember, and you had grown close, so it wasn't hard for you to tell when he had enough. There were few people who could handle everything for too long. You respected him, especially his last words to you. And though it hurt, you understood why it needed to be done.

•••

"I'm proud of you. You worked hard, and you deserve everything and more."