A Book of Short Stories

Short Story 17

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(Part Two)

When I first met you, I wasn't sure what to think. You were friends with my ex so I didn't know if I could trust you. That quickly changed.

Our relationship quickly escalated and I found myself counting down the hours until I could see you.

Sure, I had my doubts like all people do. How'd you fall so quickly? Was this all a game to you? Did you even actually like me?

But soon those doubts fell away and I agreed to be your girlfriend.

You had strict parents so you could only see me during 15-30 minute intervals, but that didn't bother me. I was happy to see you whenever I could, regardless of how often or for how long.

You gave me one of your hoodies and even sprayed some of your cologne onto it so that it smelled like you. I was obsessed with that hoodie.

You bought me chocolates for our anniversary and gave me a big hug. Man, I miss those hugs.

You made me feel safe. I liked that you were bigger than me and how easily my body fit inside your arms. You were so much taller than me that I had to stand on my tiptoes to hug you, but I even loved that too.

I loved kissing you but I always hated saying goodbye. The days we'd drive to the beach in your green pickup truck will forever stay with me. The way you'd run your thumb over mine when we'd hold hands, or how your hand would swallow mine whole.

I remember getting my nails done and how "mad" you were because the nail polish wasn't red. You'd told me once how my fingers looked like french fries and you wanted my nails to be red so it'd look like there was ketchup on them.

I'll miss the way I was when I was with you; carefree, relaxed. I don't get like that with just anyone.

I'll miss the way you could easily pick me up and swing me around like I weighed absolutely nothing.

I'll miss your sense of humor. The nights we'd spend just laughing at dumb jokes you'd crack.

But most of all, I'll miss the easy way I was able to fall asleep, believing that some day you'd be right beside me with your arm wrapped around my waist.

You promised me forever, and I believed you. But now I know that promises are so easily broken and actions speak louder than words.