Chapter 27: The Morning of DepartureI did not sleep all night. My heart felt torn and full of pain.
At dawn, I packed a small bag.
Outside was quiet, as if the whole world was holding its breath.
I prepared to quietly leave the house I had once loved. As I walked down the stairs, Mr. Rochester stopped me.
“You are leaving me, Jane?” he said.
I nodded, with tears in my eyes.
“You deceived me,” I said, “but I still love you.” He took my hand, his voice deep and full of sorrow.
“I wanted to tell you the truth, but I was afraid to lose you.”
“I cannot be a victim of secrets,” I said.
“I must keep my dignity and my freedom.” He begged me to stay and said he would send his mad wife away.
But I shook my head, for that was not the life I wanted.
“I am willing to love you, but I cannot betray my sense of right.”
I kissed his forehead gently and turned away from him. I walked out of the house as the sky began to brighten.
My steps were heavy, but I knew I had to go.
It was a heart-breaking farewell, but also a spiritual awakening.
I did not know what waited ahead, but I was ready to face it alone. | 
