I am not good at math, but this much I know is true. Another thing I know? Communication is key in any relationship—trust, even your expensive Upper West Side therapist and your expensive Lower East Side dungeon mistress would both agree. But the good news is that conflict can be a massive opportunity for growth and connection once you move past the uncomfortable tension and onto the sexy rewards waiting in the resolution. On your way there, though, allow me to re-route you away from a common speed bump—one that appears to be only a minor pothole but wields enough power to derail this whole love train. This utterance too will awaken a vengeful spirit within your partner, potentially manifesting as even more confusing or annoying behavior on their part. I know, I know. But this distinct combination of five words will undoubtedly exacerbate whatever troubles are already in store.
We were planning a new life all together. Now our only contact is a snatched phone call during his day after day run. My boyfriend usually calls me on the dot of 5. Leo is married and in lockdown along with his wife and two children. Leo and I are both writers. We met at a literary festival after everything else June. I am 51, a just now divorced Londoner, with a daughter by university. Leo is 49 and lives near Manchester. Nice-looking, yes, but it was more his personality that attracted me; he radiated humorous warmth.