5 Year Love

2014

We meet in 2014, in middle school. You had moved from out of state and were living with your grandmother, uncle, and older brother. Your mom lived out of state with her new husband and family and your dad in a different state.

When we met, you were quiet and kept to yourself. I didn't know yet but you were a pothead and got on the bus every morning high, that's why you were so quiet. I thought your loner vibe was cute.

My friends pushed me to sit with you when i told them i thought you were cute. We started talking, listening to music together, and we got closer throughout the year.

My crush on you grew and i told my best friend about you, talked to her about everything i liked about you. We kept talking and hanging out. The more we hung out, the more i liked you.

You would walk me home, going out of your way to spend a few more minutes with me. We shared the same friend group. And now that I realize it, your best friend hated me because I dated the last guy she introduced to us. From the beginning she knew we wouldn't last. I always thought it was because she secretly liked you. Maybe she did, maybe she didn't.

I don't remember exactly what all happened this year, only that I grew to like you. Ask me now why i did, and I wouldn't know how to answer. Maybe it was how you treated me, or how you looked at me, or anything else. But I'll be honest and say i can't remember the good parts anymore.

December 2014, my best friend told you to ask me out. I'm surprised you listened to her. Hours later, i texted you "ily". It was the first time I ever said it. And when you responded, my heart fluttered.

I believed we meant it.