Unfortunately, that's the story of many. They start off one way; being authentic and willing to be vulnerable. Then life happens, and to withdraw into their shell. And put on a mask to protect themselves.

It's the world we live in today.

Your story is one of the best I've read in a while. You touched on fundamental issues we face in our dating landscape today. It's sad, indeed. That love isn't what we knew it to be anymore.