Jane,
I know how you are about the discussion of anything resembling emotions, so I thought I'd spare you a conversation. I wish I could spare you this letter, too, but I'm not strong enough for that, it seems. I can't keep it in any longer.
Science is something I've always been able to grasp; figures and facts are constant and unchanging, which is the way I've always desired my life to run. At least, that's how I felt until I met you. Somehow, you've managed to change me in so many ways. Jane, you've made me a better person.
The first time I truly got to interact with you outside of your undercover persona, I was amazed. You were willing to spend time with me and you didn't let my unusual tendencies and quirks put distance between us. Instead, you put us on the path toward best friendship and I couldn't be more grateful.
Did you know that there are billions of stars in the galaxy? The number may seem overwhelming, but it's true. Unfortunately, you can only ever see approximately two and a half thousand with the naked eye. The first time you opened up to me, I thought of stars. I thought of how you were one, shining resplendently in the evening sky, and how I wanted to be one... How I wanted you to see me as one.
Those thoughts haven't left my mind since. I don't know if you see me as a star, Jane. I don't think you do. I'm just a medical examiner with a pet tortoise and a love for etymology. I'm a naive introvert; all book smart and not street smart. People are puzzles I have yet to figure out, but I seem to understand you and you definitely understand me. You comprehend me in ways no one else ever has; more than my parents, more than Ian.
You've heard me say "I love you" in various contexts and situations, but I meant them all in the same way: Jane Clementine Rizzoli, I am in love with you.
I know how you feel about your sexuality. Please know that I'm not sharing this information simply to make your life harder. I just thought you deserved to know so that you could be assured that I will always be there for you. I won't waver about anything to do with you. I'm in love with you and always will be.
You can pretend you never received and read this letter, if that's what you want. My goal is not to lose you, I don't care what it takes. As a friend, as a best friend, I can't lose you; it would destroy me. And even though it's selfish, I hope that it would destroy a tiny little piece of you, too.
Do what you will with the information you have at your disposal.
All my love,
Maura, your LLBFF.