The problem with rejection is that it inevitably leads to questioning your own self worth.

I like hanging out with you but I want to go back to being friends.

becomes

You’re fun and all but there is something inherently wrong with your personality/intelligence/face that I find repugnant.

I find myself arguing, not for a different verdict

But I think I am great, why don’t you like me?

but for an explanation

Was I too pushy, too needy, did I care too much, try too hard, was it the picnic I made for you that we ate under the stars, if I had not let you in my bed that first night would you be more comfortable around me, am I too old for you, is there someone else who’s better than I am, are you worried our classmates will find out, did you find out about the other one, did I open up to you too much, do you think I am too arrogant (do you not see that it’s just a cover for being insecure and terrified that someone will find out)?

No amount of placating will suffice

No, it’s nothing you did wrong. Sometimes you feel it, and sometimes you kinda feel it, and sometimes you don’t.

translates to:

Even if you try harder next time it won’t help because you are wrong and no amount of trying will fix that and make me or anyone else love you.

Well, you can go on my shelf with all the others and I will pretend and try again.