"When life gives you lemons, make a lemonade," they say. Well, what do you do if life throws rocks at you? Your back will bend while you build a fortress out of it.

The finals week was difficult for you. Like all the previous ones, of course, you always knew that this period was the most stressful. The workload of your studies came at you like a swarm of mosquitoes that you couldn't shake off. And even though you were the student who tried to do all the work on time, deadlines still drove you crazy.

"Knock-knock. Time for a break, luv."

You looked up when Simon came into the bedroom. He was wearing sweatpants and a T-shirt that he had bought at least five years ago. In his hands was a plate with your favorite cookies and cool tea with ice cubes. Exactly what you liked.

"I'm older than you, but we're both adults. I'm here to love you, not to raise you," he said at the beginning of your relationship.

Have you ever doubted starting a relationship with a 37-year-old man? Yes. Very much so. Simon, surprisingly, wasn't worried. The fact that you were a person with your own attitudes and views on the world was important to him. You were an adult. And very attractive, in his opinion.

It almost escaped your notice how you moved in with him on the fourth month into your relationship. His house was closer to your college, and he drop you off on the way to the base in the morning. You promised Simon that this was temporary, and you would soon find an apartment or a room to live with someone.

But honestly? Being next to someone you barely know couldn't be more comfortable than with your boyfriend, who came in to remind you to take a break from studying for the next exam. And, putting snacks and tea on the table, he put his palms on the back of your chair and bent down, kissing the top of your head.

He was here to love you. And, God, how he did so.