To my first crush,

We've only ever met once, but I still remember you like we've just met yesterday. It was R's birthday party, not my first time attending his birthday, but you were not generally there. That one time, though, you were there and I'm glad you were. I still remember you vividly. Not the most attractive of people, but you stood out in your own way. So calm and composed. A thorough gentleman.

We met there. I was young, maybe about thirteen or fourteen. You were perhaps about eighteen, but the way you held yourself, the way you spoke, and the way you stood up for me when I was too much of a people-pleaser to do so myself. I'm glad and grateful, trust me. I remember you discussing the purpose of life and death with us. You talked like you've seen everything life had to offer. Honestly, if I hadn't seen you, I would've thought you were an old man with greying hair or something, no offense.

And of course, your quirks. You were fascinating, an amazing person, really. I really wanted to see you again. I hoped I will. But then, we got the news of the accident one day, the accident you didn't survive. I was shocked, and I was sad. Although, I don't know if you were. You seemed very accepting of the inevitable truth the day we met. I hope you're happy wherever you are. And, I hope I'll see you again, if not in this life, then maybe in some other.

And of course, thank you. For being who you were. I'm grateful I met you, albeit once. Albeit just for a few hours.