OK, here are my two-cent's worth. I'm glad Clough go me to read this thread and am so glad to 'meet' you.
She is not as strong as you are and would be lost in a serious dialog. Fear can also be a factor here. She is not strong enough to be able to reject someone face to face, which would be more fair to you.
Maybe they did not know any better - we don't know how they were treated in their lives, and patterns of behavior get passed along. With some people, once you give them the little finger, they expect the whole hand without qualms.
Who know, hero worship, or just plain wanting to get on the band-wagon because her life is not as exciting.
Maybe you subconsciously wear a sign that says "here I am, use me to your benefit" Your attitude might show strength even when you feel sorrow. Don't always put on a happy face when you don't really feel that way.
You and me both, I just found out I have cancer, and my BF dumped me because he cannot cope with it. I sure would have loved to have him hold me, support me and tell me he'd be there. But 'stuff' happens and we don't always get the same love back that we give. No matter what. And it hurts like heck. When he was sick, I was always there for him and he took it for granted.
I don't think the rumors bother you that much because of your confidence. What might be bothering you is that this is the one girl that left you without explanation and is a bit of an ego killer. But, as 'Didi' suggested, with a little counseling you'll get more acquainted with your emotions where 'rejection' is related and you'll get over it. In cases like this it's the rejection that makes us loose confidence in ourselves, but it takes two, and we all eventually survive it.
Again, as 'Didi' said, you did nothing wrong.. I think is it time for you to openly show that you want some support yourself, instead of only dishing it out. A therapist is a good place to start.
Good luck dear, and keep us posted. I enjoy your dialog very much.
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