I knew when I met him, it wouldn't be permanent. We were too young to promise forever. When he took off for college, he left a piece of himself behind. I do my best day by day to provide for my daughter and me. But I watch him from afar, the biotech billionaire, and in a way, I'm proud of what he's become. It would be a lie if I said I didn't miss him.

Then, he comes back to town and now I'm faced with showing him the truth of what he's left behind and wondering if he's going to leave again, or stay this time.

It Matters to Me is a short story for readers 18 and older.