Dear the-grilled-cheese-I-had-that-one-time,

It's been 70 weeks since we last met, according to Instagram. But I haven't forgotten you. How could I? You were beautiful. Two perfect right triangles of crispy deliciousness. A Pythagorean theorem of cheesiness. 90 degrees of bliss. OK, you get the point. All I'm saying is that...you moved me. I haven't been able to find another lunch item like you. The other grilled cheeses? They can't compete. Too greasy, too plain, too burnt. I've tried to move on, but I can't accept the fact that you're gone. To make matters worse, it's all my fault. I was hungry. I acted impulsively. Things were over too fast. I should've cherished you, and for that I'm sorry.

I'll be the first to admit that I tried to replace you pretty quickly. I've had my share of Panera sandwiches since we last met. But it hasn't been the same. Their fake, orange, rubbery cheese doesn't even compare to your (presumably organic) cheddar. They're corporate sell-outs. When I bite into other grilled cheese sandwiches, all I taste is regret. I've even returned to the cute little cafe where we first met. I knew you wouldn't be there, because I ate you, but I hoped to find something similar. Instead, I downgraded. The grilled cheese I had was burnt and stale. It reminded me of who I am now, without you. And trust me, no lunch tastes good with a side of tears.

I'm in college now, three hours away from my--our--humble beginnings. I still think of you fondly, but not as much. I get grilled cheese at the dining hall and feel empty inside. Other places have fancier versions of you: gourmet bread and experimental flavors. I even saw a rainbow grilled cheese on the Internet. These are all really good, but they're so high maintenance. So full of themselves. I didn't expect anything from you, but despite your modest simplicity, you changed my life. I miss your understated beauty. You transcend social media platforms: I've put your picture on Instagram and VSCO.

I guess what I mean is...I know I'll never see you again. But I long for the day when I can find a grilled cheese that made me feel the way you did.

Love, Kelly