Disclaimer: No copyright infringement intended. I make no profit from this piece of fiction, nor do I own the rights to White Collar, or its characters.
Author's note:
1) So, surprise surprise, this chapter is a little late…sorry about that guys, I hope you've enjoyed the story. Thanks for those who have stuck by and waited.
2) I changed the title of the fic recently, sorry if that's confused anyone…
3) This is the final chapter (maybe), sorry it's so short, but due to the nature of the beast I felt like this was a fitting end.
Warning; This fic contains some content that some readers may find disturbing and/or upsetting including issues with mental health, emotional/physical abuse and suicide. Reader discretion is advised.
If you or someone you know is suffering with depression, abuse or suicide please contact a hotline in your area or go to organizations to find out more information.
Love recognises no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope. – Maya Angelou
Neal,
When we first met I didn't think anyone had a lower opinion of you than me. Not at that time. Not with what you were doing and who you were doing it with. You were a criminal, a damn good one, but still a criminal.
Becoming your friend has been one of the greatest experiences of my life, but also one of the hardest. People have told me that you're not worth the pain. The effort or the irritation. These people don't know you like I do. They haven't heard your honest laugh, only the one you use to make them feel they can trust you. They've never seen your true smile, only the one you think they will want to see. They don't know your kindness, generosity and your twisted sense of humour.
I'm writing this letter because I don't think you're ready to hear this yet. But you will be. I promise. One day, after a lot of hard work, you'll be able to see the person that I see again. You will believe that you are worth something again. I know you can't now, but you will.
You're so strong, Neal. Stronger than I think you will ever understand. Far stronger than me. You might think that I'm handling this well now, but that's only because I'm hiding from you. Because you need my strength just like I need yours, and I won't let you down. Not again.
I'm going to put this letter somewhere safe, and give it to you when you're ready to read the words. It's going to take some time, but we'll get you back to where you were some day. I promise you that much.
Just remember that I'll always be there for you, me and all the other people who love you. Because there are a lot of us, more than you think. And we all love you and we'll never give up on you. Once you're ready, I know you'll come back to us.
But until then, we'll wait for you. All of us. For however long it takes, we'll be here.
Your friend,
Peter.
P.S. I know you stole Dr Sayed's watch at your last appointment and I will prove it.