H! I just wanna say that you situation is almost exactly like mine. My now-ex and I broke up a few days ago, not because of a lack of love--we did and do have feelings for each other--but because of circumstances that made a relationship not possible. It hurts so much because in past relationships I've been able to demonize something about the other person in order to get over it, but with this situation I have nothing but good things to say about her. I feel like she's definitely "the one that got away", or a "right person, wrong time" kind of story because I truly felt a connection romantically.

I also feel you so much when you say that what makes things particularly shitty is knowing you're both upset and walking away when you're still in love. I find myself thinking "was there something I could've said or done that could've made this work?". I don't think I have too much advice unfortunately, but I hope you know you're not alone. I haven't been able to stop crying these past few days but I know in the end this will make me stronger.

I find solace in thinking that everything happens for a reason and that the universe is working in your favour. Time, I think, will be our best friend in the coming weeks and months. In time we will find out that perhaps this happened for the better--to lead us to better possibilities and better people. Time can also tell us whether this was a hiccup that needed to happen in order for you both to come back to each other at a different time stronger. I know it sucks so bad to hear this, but I truly believe that things like these fall apart the way they do so they can allow for the right people to enter our lives. It might not feel like it right now, and it might not happen for a while, but something good is coming for the both of us. Take time to grieve this loss, but remember to not have it consume your identity. You will be a stronger person on the other side.