When love grows but isn’t returned.

Emily and I grew up in the same neighbourhood. Our families were close, so naturally, we became close too. From childhood, she was always by my side. I used to call her “my wife,” even though I didn’t fully understand what that meant at such a tender age. We did everything together school, church, holidays. Wherever you saw me, you saw Emily. We were inseparable.

But after writing our BECE, life pulled us in different directions. I went to a boys’ school, while she went to a mixed school. Even though we were worlds apart, we stayed in touch. As the years went by, my feelings for her grew deeper. It was no longer childhood attachment it became something real. I became so protective of her that I would warn any guy who tried to get close. She was beautiful, and in my heart, she already belonged to me. Years later, after we had both completed our tertiary education, I finally gathered the courage to propose to her. But she said no. She told me she was in love with someone else. I couldn’t accept it. I pleaded with her, hoping she would change her mind but she didn’t.

I had already told her parents about my intentions, and they welcomed me warmly. They were happy with the idea of us. But Emily… she didn’t want to hear any of it. Because of how much I love her, I never gave any other girl a chance. I held onto the belief that she was mine that one day, she would come around.

Even my parents have advised me to let her go, to move on since she clearly doesn’t feel the same way. But how do I walk away from someone who has been a part of my life for so long? Now she tells me she’ll be getting engaged soon.

And I’m still here.. hoping, praying… that she changes her mind.

But deep down, I’m starting to ask myself… Is love really love… if it has to be forced? Can someone truly belong to you… if they don’t choose you?

Or am I just holding on to a memory, while she’s already moved on with her life?

What would you do if you were in my shoes?