That’s when the headlights appeared.

How the "mother figure" acts as the first teacher of what love feels like. The concept of Parental Proxies

Looking back, I realize that "first love" isn't always about a romantic ending. Sometimes, it’s about realizing what you value in a person. She taught me that I valued emotional intelligence, stability, and kindness.

It is crucial to distinguish between genuine, reciprocal romantic love and a one-sided, developmental crush. In almost all cases, this feeling is —an intense, involuntary emotional state of longing and obsession—not a sustainable partnership.

Usually, this is a "liminal" love—a bridge between childhood crushes and adult relationships. It’s a sign that you are starting to appreciate deeper qualities in people.