Title: Pretending I Don't Want Someone to Fall Madly in Love with Me at the Airport

Article:

Sometimes, situations arise in life where we find ourselves not being able to reciprocate the feelings someone has towards us. One such instance occurred recently when I found myself in an airport, desperately trying to keep someone from falling deeply in love with me.

As I stepped into the airport, I noticed a familiar face across the crowded terminal. It was Mark, a charming and seemingly genuine person I had met a few weeks ago. We had hit it off instantly, but I soon realized that his affections were much stronger than mine.

His constant messages and attempts to see me had made it clear that he was losing his heart to me. While it was flattering, I knew I had to handle the situation delicately.

Avoiding direct eye contact, I subtly made my way to the check-in counters, hoping to escape his notice. However, Mark soon caught sight of me and enthusiastically began making his way towards me. Panic ensued as I frantically searched for a way to deter his advances without hurting his feelings.

As we stood face to face, Mark's eyes glistened with excitement, his smile wide and full of hope. I knew I had to pretend that his affection was unwelcome, for our hearts were not aligned.

Taking a deep breath, I forced a distant expression, allowing a hint of disinterest to appear on my face. I knew that I had to make him realize that my heart did not beat in sync with his.

With every word Mark spoke, revealing his genuine emotions, my heart ached. It was difficult to appear indifferent when all I wanted was to reciprocate the love I saw reflected in his eyes. However, I had to restrain myself, as I knew deep down that leading him on would only prolong his suffering.

As Mark continued to pour his heart out, I mustered the courage to gently explain that I valued our friendship but couldn't return his romantic feelings.

It was a painful moment, witnessing his hope dissipate and his face cloud with disappointment. I hoped he would understand that sometimes, love cannot be forced, and it is better to acknowledge the truth than live in a fantasy.

As I walked towards my departure gate, I couldn't help but glance back at Mark, standing there forlorn and dejected. It was a bittersweet moment, knowing that I had spared him from a potentially heart-wrenching pursuit. While it may have been easier to let him believe there was a chance, it would have been unfair to both of us.

In the end, the airport became a symbol of unrequited love and the lengths we go to protect others from such pain. Sometimes, we have to pretend not to want someone to fall madly in love with us, even if our hearts secretly yearn for the same.