Dear First Love

7

Dear First Love,

It was raining today. I don’t like the rain because it brings back bad memories.

But you lent me your umbrella today and walked me home. Thank you. I know that your shoulder got wet as you held your umbrella over my head. I’m sorry that I’m such a nuisance. I shouldn’t bother you, but I can’t help it when you’re just so nice to me.

You talked to me about your day. It was nice, hearing someone else talking next to me. But it was a bad day to come to my house. Dad was angry today.

I’m sorry for telling you to go away. I’m sorry that I couldn’t tell you why. But dad would have hurt you if he had known. He would have yelled and tried to punch you. I don’t want you to get hurt, especially not because of me. For some reason, I don’t want you to see what goes on at home. Maybe I don’t want to scare you off.

You left like I told you to. I felt sad and empty afterwards, but glad that dad hadn’t seen you. But he had.

When I went into the house again, dad was very angry. He had seen you outside with me in the rain, and he beat me for it. This is what I didn’t want you to see.

I’m sorry that I pushed you away. I’m so sorry.

Sincerely,

H.