High school date. You were exotic. Prince fan, me too. Went out a few times. You pinned me to your bed after school. I froze as you undid my zipper. Little brother entered. I cried and walked home.

High school acquaintance. The good girl, the true beauty. Everyone was shocked when we learned you were pregnant just before graduation. I wanted to be your friend, but I was not a very good friend to be had.

Football player. Crazy fun. Broke my heart repeatedly in grade 12 and after. Your familial life story is filled with grief and sadness, I sincerely hope that you’ve found peace among it all. And a little humility, too.

21 – days we dated. My “older” neighbour crush… I danced when you asked me out. First date, the horse races. Felt so grown up. You drove a new Fiero. We broke up because I was immature. T’was true.

You were my “first”. When you dumped me you said I was “too big”. I was a 5′6″, 132 lbs gymnast. You were 5′4 and wrestled at 112 pounds. Which one of us was outside the norm? Jerk.

Boyfriend and Prom Date, 1986. First date – Red Lobster and a movie. Enjoyed your parents company. You were one year older, distance after you graduated did me in. You’re a genuinely nice guy, I hope you’ve done well.

I asked you to Sadie Hawkins. Yes. You couldn’t get the night off work. You stared at my breasts unabashedly. Known you better, I wouldn’t have asked in the first place. I didn’t go and it was ok.

Prom 1986. You asked early, I said yes. I started dating someone and he asked, too. You let me off the hook, graciously. And forever I will wish I’d stayed the course. Engaging smile which gave me butterflies.