Vanessa rolled onto her back, resting her head on Bryce's chest as they lay on a blanket at the park. It was a warm summer day, just a few weeks after their high school graduation. 


"I can't believe we're going to be separated for the first time soon," Vanessa said. "I'm going to miss you so much when I'm in New York." 


Bryce leaned down and kissed the top of her head. "It's only for four years. Florida is far, but we'll see each other on breaks."


"You're right," Vanessa replied. She snuggled closer, not wanting this moment to end. 


Bryce tilted her chin up and kissed her tenderly. "We're going to make this work, Nessa. I love you."


"I love you too, Bryce. Always have, always will." 


"No matter what happens, we'll still be together," Bryce said, confidence in his voice.


Vanessa smiled up at him. "Our love can make it through anything. Even distance."


They spent the rest of the afternoon planning out their visits and talking about the future. They were convinced their storybook romance could survive anything. 


But long-distance love would prove difficult. Phone calls would become less frequent and visits scarce. Soon, they were embroiled in their separate college lives. Amicable but painful breakups followed each holiday break until the ties finally severed completely. 


They'd meet new people. Find love with new partners, but they never forgot their first loves.