This is how it was supposed to be.

So the inevitable happened. I thought I was prepared, that I had mentally hardened myself for the departure. Unfortunately, it wasn't the case. The announcement affected me much more than what I would expect. My initial reaction was one of joy -- because I really liked what I heard. I was happy, excited for a friend who would be travelling to a new country and place, meeting new people and generally being part of a new life. It was bittersweet too -- only because somewhere in the corner of my heart, I continued to hope (even if against my conscience) that it wouldn't come to this. (But then I realised how incredibly selfish I would be and ended up feeling guilty and remonstrating myself). As the news sunk in, very slowly, I felt dazed. It was actually happening. I would really be losing something so very important to my life (and me). It took for me to realise the enormity of the situation. It would be a long 16 months. I wanted to be delighted (I was). But a part of me couldn't help but cry. I tried to stop, but the tears stung my eyes even while I was busy at work (well, pretending to work at least).
I had promised myself I wouldn't cry, I did.
I had promised myself I would be strong, I crumbled.
I had promised myself I wouldn't let anyone get under my skin, I did.
I had promised myself I wouldn't fall in love again, I did.
Broken promises. And soon, another storm to be weathered.