So, here’s another thing about relationships. When you’re with a partner, you actually buy into the faery tale that you are more than just yourself. You face the world together. As a team. As a duo. Like that song “Fast car” implores: “I-ah-eye- had a feeling like I belonged. I-ah-eye had a feeling like I could be someone. Be someone.”

You do. Another very hackneyed saying: You complete me. As corny as that sounds, it is true. At least, we believe this to be true. As a couple, you feel as if your partner, your ally, your kin, your family, your better half not only sees and understands you, but in every instance, has your back. Any obstacles you face, any decisions, any forks in the road, you face together.

It’s only after a short while, you find out this not to be true at all. You’re not a team. You are not together. You are not even advancing the same goals. Why, in some cases, you find yourselves competitors, enemies, and in the worst of situations, actual impediments to your true self.

“The incense burned away, and the stench began to rise. Lovers now estranged, avoided catching each other’s eyes.” (Slit Skirts) 

It may be a modern invention, though I doubt that. Though, it’s much easier to go to distractions these days. She stares at her phone, hoping her new love interest might notice her post on social media. Perhaps she seeks others out and curious, asks for a meeting, and perhaps a more. She can escape her unwanted live for a little private pleasure with an old friend, or a newly found stranger with all the right words.

In the end, it’s all the same result. The couple that started out so promising, and so fresh and new, finding out about the world together, and going on many adventures, finds itself at opposite ends of the structure. This one pulls away, and in revenge, that one does too.

He finds his own solace in strangers too. An old friend, or a newly-found online stranger with all the correct words. She swoons him, and swells him. He wishes for more.

Then, the jealousy. The accusations. Eventually, even the most secretive indiscretions come to light. After all, few lies are ever completely exposed, but is not necessary for a breakdown. At this point, even the hint of indiscretion is enough for suspicions and accusations. The die has been set. The couple distrust.

Distrust only sends each into their private rooms even further. Eventually, one partner or the other will decide it’s no longer feasible to maintain this broken relationship. (Honestly, it’s usually the woman)  They decide they can no longer abide by their agreements to a partnership, and asks for a dissolution, and end.

He, (usually, it’s he) is hurt beyond all words, of all deeds. He decides he must agree to her terms of surrender. He agrees. But, before they part, he tries his best to change her mind. No, sir. She is resolute and will no longer listen to his pathetic pleas.

In the end, he gives up. She gives up, and moves on. They both decide it’s for the best. 

She moves to the next one. He finds his comfort in drink.

Separate, they start their lonely dance all over again with the next one.