Made a tough choice for the sake of faith

Assalamu alaikum everyone. I'm a Muslim brother who recently had to end a relationship because of deen and hijab concerns, and I'd really value some honest thoughts-not necessarily comfort, but genuine reflections on how I went about it. We’d been close for over a year and a half, both living in a non-Muslim country (like Canada), and when we first connected, we were both fairly practicing. I genuinely cared for her and had serious marriage intentions. Looking back, I know it would have been better to start everything in a halal manner, but I didn’t, so here’s where things stand. About a year into knowing each other, she shared that she was struggling with her faith and observing the hijab. Once that came up, I suggested we hit pause for two main reasons: 1. To give each other room to think clearly and honestly without emotions getting in the way 2. Because our bond was strong, and I thought some space might help soften a possible separation if it came to that During that break, which lasted a couple of months, we had a deep discussion about Islam and the importance of hijab. I shared what I knew from scholars and strongly encouraged her to speak with a knowledgeable imam or teacher (I even offered to help set that up), as I didn’t want to be her only guide. I made lots of duaa throughout that time. After the pause, she let me know she couldn’t fully commit to wearing hijab going forward. At that point, we both agreed it was best to part ways, feeling that moving toward marriage with that uncertainty could cause bigger issues later on-maybe even affect a marriage and any future children. Quick note: when we first met, she was wearing hijab, subhanAllah. For me, having a wife who observes hijab is a non-negotiable part of my faith-not just a personal preference-and I’d made that clear early on. She couldn’t commit to that, and I respect her sincerity in saying so. We truly cared for each other, and this was really the only big clash between us, but I realize it’s a core one in our deen. Here’s what’s on my mind: 1. Aside from the relation itself not being halal, did I handle things wrongly? Was pausing when doubts arose the right call, or could it have made her feel even more distant? 2. She’s lost someone she loved deeply over matters of faith/hijab. I worry that might push her further away from Islam instead of closer. Is that a reasonable worry, and should I have done anything differently? 3. Any advice on how to approach marriage properly from now on? 4. Is it okay to make duaa that Allah guides her back to the straight path, and maybe, if it's best, that we reconnect in a halal way one day? 5. How do you cope and heal from something like this? JazakAllahu khayran for listening.