LOVE.

It's four little letters that when combined can be life-changing. It means different things to different people. To some, it's new hope and happiness. To others, it can only lead to heartbreak and sadness. And to others love is just a game.

Tonight did not go how I had planned at all. Instead of being in the arms of the man I thought I loved, I'm walking home in my pretty little dress soaked to the bone. Clear skies my ass. Thanks for the lies weather app.

Evan was supposed to sweep me off my feet. Serenade me with his words. Then whisper in my ear the words I had been waiting to hear for months but instead, he dumped me because he didn't want us to be tied down when we started college.

"Long distance relationships are hard. College is a new beginning. New people and experiences. We should both have the freedom to experiment a little and have some fun." He told me.

At first, it was as if he was talking to me underwater. The words distorted and hard to hear. But as the seconds went by his words became clearer and clearer.

"You're breaking up with me?" I asked to clarify. I couldn't believe it. A year and a half down the drain. All that time and energy wasted. All those promises we made empty and to be forgotten.

But was it really all a waste? Were the promises all just meaningless words?

No, they weren't.

Even if he didn't love me. I loved him. I'm not ashamed to admit it. Our time together was life changing. Something I'll never forget.

That man made me happier than no other. When I was with him it felt like time stood still and went faster than the speed of light. All I could see was him. He was my light in the dark room. My guide to follow to safety.

He protected me. He was there for me. Most importantly, he helped me fall in love with myself.

No longer am I the shy girl too quiet to speak my mind. I'm beautiful. I'm happy. I'm content with life. Even if my life doesn't have Evan in it anymore.

I will not let heartbreak consume me. I'll move on with my head held high and the memories of our time together because he was right. College is a new beginning. A fresh start and I'm ready to face it head-on.

I wipe the rainwater from my face as I step onto my dry front porch. Rummaging through my bag, I find my key ring to open the front door. It opens with a low creak that has been there for years. With a deep breath and a smile on my face, I head up to my bedroom. I need to start packing. I leave my college in a few weeks but first I think I'll take a warm shower.