In a moment filled with anticipation and vulnerability, I mustered the courage to confess my feelings: "I love you," I whispered, my voice quivering. I held my breath, hoping for his reciprocation. His hands gently cradled my face, sending my heart into a frenzy of excitement. Could this be it? Could he feel the same way? With bated breath, he finally spoke my name, "Olivia" and I could sense the hesitation in his voice. "I understand this is all new for you," he said, his own breaths coming slowly, take your time. It's all new for me as well. My mind raced with elation, and I could feel the sweat on my brow as my emotions threatened to overwhelm me. But then, in a devastating turn, he delivered words that shattered my heart irreparably: "I will never love you." With those cruel words, he walked away, leaving me standing there, my heart in a million irreparable pieces.