Chapter 15 - Maisie

Being alone and being lonely are two very, very different things I have learned over the years.

I feared being alone for the simple reason of abandonment issues. My parents left me, and friends have gradually left. I have never had a romantic relationship out of fear-the fear of being humiliated and left to pick up the pieces. I have always relied on Emily for support, and it's never been about money, as I have worked my own way up and done things I never thought I'd be able to do, like my photography. I love the life I have created for myself, but how can I allow myself to have that stability if I can't seem to trust anyone enough to let them in? But in reality, I have been lonely for years. I watch other people show affection and love towards each other; I have seen families so happy to be with each other; or I have photographed the reunion of some soldiers coming home after being on deployment, and their faces when they see family are one thing I only ever wished I could have, whic