Disclaimer: I own nothing but the computer I wrote this on. And even that is still being paid off….

No.

It's a simple word, only two letters. The dictionary defines it as an adverb meaning "a negative used to express dissent, denial, or refusal, as in response to a question or a request."

Probably everyone in the world knows what it means. Even if they have their own word for it, the sentiment is still universal, and people of different cultures can usually understand the point that the other is trying to make. The French have non. The Germans say nein. And, of course, there is the Spanish no.

I've used the word no in various forms many times before, though probably not as many as I should have. Are you hungry? Not right now. I think we should get a dog! What do you think, baby? We'd kill it, Mom. Do you mind if I go to Phil's game tonight, honey? Of course not, go ahead. Are you going to the dance at the school tonight? No, Dad. I just thought I'd go upstairs and go to bed. Are you sure you don't want to come stay with me in Florida? No, Mom. I want to stay in Forks.

But I never thought a word, especially as small as this that is used countless time a day by billions of people, could hurt so badly, or that it could change my entire world. I guess I just never heard the right person say it before.

"You don't want me?" I asked.

"No."

Ok, so my 21st birthday just passed on the 24th of October, and this little drabble was a sort of late birthday present to myself. I know it's a little more angsty than most people would want as a b-day gift, but it was really just to get me writing again while I'm at school. I hope you liked it!