I did it.
He asked, nay, begged to kiss me and I said no. I grew a spine, I avoided it, and I conquered.
He still wants to take me out again... Laurel says if he was that aggressive and I felt absolutely nothing, I should say no. It'll be hard, but I'm strong, and I can do it again.

I've learned something about me. I've known it for a little while, but it's finally coming fully to my awareness: I enjoy being alone. I am happy to be the one who stays home instead of going to that party. I am content to support the wall and guard the snacks when nobody is talking to me. I don't need a man.

There is still one; I don't know if he will ever stop holding that place in my heart, and I know I may never have him, but the wounds have healed, and, just for now, since I don't have him, I enjoy being alone.