How, gone?

W is back in town. I have not seen him since school let out. He left without saying good-bye, without a word. After saying that, because of a year of smiles when he needed them and a few acts of kindness, he'd be "my friend forever." I don't doubt we're still friends, but his leaving hurt so much. Why? Because of his (perhaps) careless words, and I believed them, silly and foolish girl that I am. Why did I let it mean so much, why let it matter??? Because I wanted a friendship that was safe, that I could count on not changing around me. When everything else was in danger and changing, I wanted to have someone I knew would be safe. I believed him when he said that anytime I needed someone to talk to or just someone to take me away for a while, that he'd be there. I believed because I wanted to, and then he was gone.
Now W is back and I am not sure how to act. I knew him a year, less really, a school year. I have no claim on him, for friendship ought not to be such a burden. So, lost I was and lost I will remain.