She ran away on a summer day. She ran to a place that used to be home. As she drove, she could see the lake through the trees. She smiled. The lake looked beautiful from a distance but when she got close, it took on the consistency of a giant, muddy puddle. She parked her car and began to walk down the path she knew by heart. She was Dorothy, looking for Oz. She found him on the basketball court. Someone called her name before he saw her, an old friend saying hello. She watched his body freeze, as if he had been waiting, expecting, and dreading the moment she came. Her heart raced in her chest as she pleaded with her mouth to smile.

He looked the same better, even. It was as if life without her agreed with him. He walked over and said hello. They smiled at each other and shared an awkward hug as the world around them watched, whispered. Everyone knew their story. They parted ways quickly, claiming other plans. She walked away. He stayed and watched her go. As the sun set, they found each other again. They were alone. As they kissed, they cried. This was the goodbye they never said. He tasted like sweat and his face scratched hers. She could remember every inch of him but his kisses belonged to someone else. They had changed as she knew they would. She walked away that evening but turned to say one more thing. He smiled before she said anything and held up his hand to sign "I love you." She felt her heart break and left a piece with him. When he was out of sight, she collapsed to the ground. She could not breathe. She pressed her fingers to her lips, trying to press the memory of him into her skin. She knew she would never see him again. So much time has passed and even more has changed. But first love is first love it changes your heart forever.