I had just gotten off the plane in Australia and knew absolutely no one. I sat on the train and cried from fear. He came over and started talking to me. Another American transplant in Sydney. His name was Max. He gave me his number on a business card and told me to call him if I ever needed someone. I was 20 years old and on my own in a different country, so I called him. We met for dinner and realized there might be something there. Three weeks later, we were walking to his apartment, holding hands, and laughing. I had told him I was a virgin the night before. I did not know what he would do but the next night, it just happened. I looked over at the clock and realized we were both awake at 5 am. He kept asking if it was ok. I said yes and it began.
It wasn’t painful but it was not pleasant. Afterwards I sat in silence for a few seconds and he put his arm around me. It only took around 10 minutes total. I don’t regret him being my first. We spent 4 months together until I had to return home. I realize that while I thought I was in love, he was not the love of my life. Honestly, I’m glad I gave it to him.