Feeling disheartened, I entered the gate and walked to the boarding area. In times like this, I wanted a partner to go home with me, as did my parents.

I tried to console myself that the urgent phone call was why he had to leave. I called Ivanna to let her know where I was. Then I settled into the airport lounge while waiting for boarding.

Matthew had only been to my hometown three times. The first time was the year we graduated. He came to meet my parents after our relationship became offici