Daily Writing Piece #2 - The One Who Got Away

I helped her carry the last of her boxes to the car. I’m not sure if consciously, but I always made sure I was behind her. The last to leave the house. I think symbolically, I needed to see her leave before me. I still don’t know how we managed to fit all of those boxes into her fiat 500. The ultimate game of TETRIS.

I don’t know why, but I walked back to the front door, getting ready to wave her off. I stood, arms folded, balancing precariously on the step, looking down the road, holding back all tears from my eyes. I was distracting myself by counting the streetlights. And then the cars. And then the passers-by. And then her.

“This is it then, I guess”. I turned my head and was met with a pale, tear-filled girl. She looked so young. I’m not sure if it was the step that created this height difference, but my god she looked so childlike.

“I guess”. I shrugged, pretending to be strong.

We had lived at this house for 3 years, and now our dissertations have been handed in, it’s time we all head back home. She just happens to be the first to go.

“I’ll miss you”. I say, reluctantly. Now regretting what I’ve said.

“I’ll miss you” she says back, not reluctantly, with not ounce of regret.

We hug. As friends do.

It lasts longer than friend hugs usually do.

We are still connected.

Hearts touching. Beating together. For the last time.

“I’ll miss you”. I lean my head back, catching her ear as I sway past.

“I’ll miss- “

I cut her off. This was my chance. These past 3 years, memories flashing before my eyes, had all lead to this moment.

And then it happened.

A kiss. A kiss that has waited 3 years to be had.

I can feel her hand slowly making its way down my back and into my hand. It must have only lasted a few seconds, but this moment felt like eternity.

And then it was over. Just like that.

I watched her walk back to her car and drive away. I stood on the step, waiting for her to turn around and run back to me. But nothing, she continued to drive away. Drive away to her new life, with a new start and a new love, and all I’ll ever be was the one who got away.