A/N: This fic will be updated sporadically, as inspiration strikes and time allows. You will notice that I haven't declared an LI, and I don't intend to for this fic. I will also treat both Kaidan and Ashley as being alive in their letters. I will, however, acknowledge that Thane and Mordin are dead, but still write them letters regardless. All other squadmates are alive.
Garrus,
Maybe this is a little clichéd, to be writing letters to my crew on the eve of war just in case … but, just in case, I couldn't leave without saying goodbye. I'm going to fight like hell to make sure you never have to read this letter. I plan on surviving this war, but I know … sometimes plans go sideways. Tomorrow … tomorrow, when we're on Earth, fighting for the galaxy, fighting for life itself, I know I'll have to be brave. Keep my 'commander mask' in place. I'll probably give a speech, you know, rally the troops, but inside I'll be terrified. If I do my job right, though, maybe you and the others will be a little less so. You'll listen to me talk, and you'll think there's hope. And who the hell am I to say there isn't?
Still, I can't shake this feeling, down deep in my gut that's telling me I'm not going to make it through. So, here I am being sentimental. I never really took the time to tell you how much you mean to me, Garrus. You've been with me through this from the very beginning. You've been the one to always have my six and support my decisions, no matter what. I trust you more than any other. Though, don't go telling anyone else that. You've been a rock for me, something solid and real though it all. Virmire. Waking up on Cerberus' slab. Horizon. Losing Thane and Mordin. You've been there for me, helping to pull me back from the brink of darkness in those painful moments. A shoulder to lean on, keeping me moving forward when everything seemed lost. Thank you.
I want you to know, more than anything, I have faith in you, Garrus Vakarian. You have the potential to be anything, go as far in this crazy life as you want. You're a fantastic leader, and if when this is all over the Spectres are still a thing, I think you should really go for it. Assuming it's something you still want to do. Regardless, whatever you choose to do, don't hold back. Promise me that, promise me you won't hold back … and don't let my death be the thing that stands in your way.
Shepard