I couldn't tell you exactly when it started, nor the situation that made me so aware of you, but what I do know is that suddenly I looked forward to going to school every day.

The crush lasted three years. Did you ever notice? Some people say that it's love if the crush lasts more than three months... So were you also my first love as well as my first crush?

All I remember about the start of it is that it started halfway through the first school year – it was winter, and cold. So were the smiles you shot my way so warming that they also warmed my heart?

The transition between the first and second year was terrifying. Our teacher was leaving and our form group was going to split up; sure, we'd still have classes together, but nothing would have beaten the fact that your face was one of the first I'd see every morning.

Out of the seven potential form groups we could have ended up in, what were the chances we'd both end up going into the same? One in seven. Yet it happened. I would still get to see your face every morning for the rest of our four years together at that school.

But the days you weren't there? They were the worst. Sometimes you were ill; like with everyone that's unavoidable. Other times you were at sporting events, doing your football or cricket. Yet you were still at the top of the class. Even working towards your sporting goals, you never gave up on your education. Even if we hadn't been placed in the same tutor group, we would have been together in the top classes, and that would have been blessing enough for me.

It was during these classes that my eyes were always on you, and waiting for any interaction. You liked being centre of attention; I could watch you whenever you did your antics at the front of the class. At one point you were sat behind me in science class with your friends; none of you had a pencil sharpener so you called for my attention. I was shy when you did, but so happy.

I was always so shy around you, and stealing glances. Did you really never notice?

Before long, your short, two letter nickname also called for my attention as much as my own name did.

Almost every girl imagines their name with their crush's surname; for me, our names went a step further. My initials are DC; your initials are EB. It was almost like your initials stood protectively around mine, and the realisation of it made me smile.

Now you've realised your sporting dream and I've not seen you since. I guess what they say is true – your first love is never one you can ever, really, truly get over.

I've not had a crush quite like this in the ten years since.

Am I a part of your school memories at all?

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This was exactly 500 words in Word. So proud! Clearly my feelings for this guy can't be expressed in anything less than the maximum limit.

Unfortunately I reside outside the US so I can't win anything, but someone like me just couldn't hold back - I had to write something! And maybe I'll write more. Getting in practice while releasing your feelings like this - is there anything better?