I asked someone out when I was about 14. I’d never asked anyone out before; it took me all year to build up the courage to do it.

She could’ve just said no. Instead, she publicly humiliated me in front of my friends and classmates. Made a big scene about it.

I never again attempted to ask anyone out.

Thankfully, I was attractive enough that others approached me and asked me out over the years, and I’m married now because my wife latched onto me and wouldn’t let go. But if I ever lose her, especially this late in my life (in my 40s), I’m likely going to die a lonely hermit.

I am relieved at the choice of being alone.