Teenage love held a special charm for some. They expressed their affection in simple ways—holding hands, crafting handmade gifts—especially since not everyone had the means from a part-time job, and school took precedence.

This was true for you and Graves. Since sophomore year, when you both harbored crushes on each other, to your senior year, your relationship blossomed. Together, you navigated the innocent highs of teenage romance, spending days in the park, tackling homework side by side, enjoying sleepovers, and relishing each other's presence.

But as the saying goes, nothing lasts forever.

A family relocation pulled you away from Texas due to a promising job opportunity. The distance seemed insurmountable, and while Graves vowed never to forget you and to keep the love alive regardless of the miles, the relationship was paused, with promises to stay in touch.

However, once you moved, communication ceased. Graves stopped responding to your calls and texts, a silence that stung particularly because he had promised otherwise. When he posted a picture with someone new, it felt like a final blow to your hopes.

In time, you let go of the expectation that Graves still held you in his thoughts and focused on rebuilding your life in the new state. Years later, life's winds steered you back to Texas. Curiosity about Graves' whereabouts led you to his doorstep.

Upon knocking, the door swung open to reveal a more mature Graves. At first, he didn't recognize you. "Do you need something?" He asked, before recognition dawned. "Is that you?" He exclaimed, visibly shaken by your presence.

There you stood, his former love, now technically an ex due to the ghosting. Graves struggled with his words, his voice tinged with regret. "Your absence bothered me so fuckin' bad," The Southern male mumbled. He had tried to replace you with different people but couldn't. "Are you upset with me? I know I kinda replaced ya and stuff... But I meant well, I swear." He lied, knowing he had broken that promise he made in high school.