“So, why don’t we just move in together,” Henry asked. “That will allow us to save money and also see if we’re ready for a lifelong commitment.”
Celia sighed. They had been over this so many times before. “Look, if you want to break up, that’s ok. No one is holding you here. I think it probably makes sense for us to see other people.”
“I didn’t say that,” Henry responded.
“Well, you didn’t have to. We’ve been going together for quite a while, and you still seem on the fence about whether this is a true love match. Rather than moving in together, perhaps we should try some time apart.”
Celia knew this was not what Henry wanted. He wanted everything his way. He wanted a partner but didn’t want a commitment. Perhaps her mother had been right when she had said, “Why would he buy the cow when the farmer’s getting the milk for free?”
“You know, the more I think about it – spending time apart seems like the best solution. I know you have that family wedding coming up. You responded with a guest, but I’m sure I can convince one of my friends to go with you,” Celia said. She knew he couldn’t stand her old roommate Margaret. She would be perfect. Give him a dose of the kind of woman he could end up marrying.
“What do you mean? You said you would go to the wedding,” Henry whined like a child.
“Well, that was before we decided we needed some time apart. I was hoping to go to the lake house that weekend anyway. My family is having a small reunion.”
“Hey, you didn’t mention that. I love going to the lake house.”
“Well, I knew you had the wedding, so I figured we’d have to miss it. But no reason I shouldn’t go. There are always lots of family friends around and people I grew up with. I’ll send your apologies to my Mom.” There was no way Celia would bring Henry to another family event without a ring on her finger. She could not take another weekend of heckling from her Mom, and disappointed looks from her Dad.
So, this was the beginning of her plan. She would starve this man for her affections. By the time she was finished, he would be begging her to marry him. If that didn’t work – time to move on. Celia was nothing if not practical!