Finding Strength After Choosing Allah Over a Forbidden Connection

Assalamu alaikum everyone. I wanted to share something I've been going through. I recently ended a relationship because I knew it wasn't right in the sight of Allah. I've made sincere tawbah and, alhamdulillah, I feel at peace with my Lord over the decision itself. I'm just hoping for some understanding and support from those who might get it. She wasn't a Muslim. When I first realized this, I tried to end things, telling her honestly that marriage wouldn't be possible. But, I made the mistake of letting the connection continue. We had real conversations and a deep bond, and some moments felt special. Alhamdulillah, we never crossed the major boundary of zina; it ended after a kiss. The guilt from that alone became overwhelming, and I finally ended it for good the next day. The whole time, my mind was trying to find excuses, looking for any angle to make it seem okay. But my soul knew the truth before my head caught up. Every time we got too close, I'd feel this physical sickness from the guilt. My peace only returned when I walked away and turned back to Allah. The hardest part now is knowing I hurt her. She trusted me, and my back-and-forth indecision caused her pain. I have sought forgiveness from Allah, but I carry the weight of knowing I can't apologize to her directly. I have to live with that consequence. I've been dealing with this all alone. I don't have close Muslim friends to talk to, and the people around me don't fully understand the spiritual struggle involved. So it's just been me making dua and talking to Allah. I also regret never properly sharing my faith with her. I held back, worried she'd think I was pushing Islam on her. I wish I had just been open about that core part of who I am, not to change her, but to be honest. I make dua for her guidance regularly, knowing it is only from Allah. It's been a few months now. Some days are okay, and she feels like a memory. Other days, the sadness hits all over again. Has anyone else faced a similar test? How do you manage the sadness while holding onto the peace you found with Allah? And how do you come to terms with closing a chapter completely, knowing you'll never speak to that person again? JazakAllah khayran for listening.