Dear [Anna],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing because I have some bad news, and I want to be completely upfront with you about it.
I accidentally damaged the copy of [Book Title] that you lent me, and I am truly sorry. I know how much that book means to you, and I feel terrible that I wasn’t more careful with it.
What happened was completely my fault. I had been reading it outside on the patio last weekend and left it on the table when a sudden rainstorm came through. By the time I got back out there, the cover and the bottom corners of the pages had gotten soaked. I dried it immediately, but the cover is now warped and there are some water stains on the first several pages. It still reads fine, but I know it’s not in the condition you lent it to me.
I want to make this right. I’ve already ordered a brand-new replacement copy from the bookstore, and it should arrive by the end of the week. I’d like to give you the new one and keep the damaged copy for myself, if you’re okay with that. If the edition is out of print or if you’d prefer something else, just let me know and I’ll gladly reimburse you for the full value of the book instead.
Again, I’m really sorry. I know trust matters when you lend something you care about, and I hate that I let you down. Please let me know which option works better for you, and thank you for being understanding.
Warmly,
Miya
