I pushed the bushes aside, and there sat a skinny young boy, maybe a toddler, with matted curly dark brown hair, hollow cheeks, and rags for clothes. I froze in shock until I finally found the words to say, "Hello, my name's Cleo. . . what's yours?" I spoke as softly and calmly as possible. He blinked his pretty grey eyes at me. "Mateo." . . . Imagine a half-eaten apple flies through the air and smacks you on the head. There's nobody around and no way for anyone to hide. Then, it happens again the next day and you do some searching and find a small child. Would you take him in? Help him find his parents?

"I love you, Ashton" I whispered to his sleeping face, being careful so he doesn't hear. Quickly kissing him on the cheek, I run away knowing that he can't know, and he will never know. I'm in love with my bestfriend. "Diana?" Ashton's voice stops me. Tears threaten to fall down, but I push them away. "Yes?" "Could you please call Mel?" He replies. I nod and walk away.

Hi my name is Erin and you are about to read all about the last few years of my love (or not so loving) life. My story may not have a happy ending, but it is one that has made me who I am today, and I'm proud of it.