Have You Ever

  Oh, you want drama? Buckle in, because this one deserves its own soap opera soundtrack. Picture it: three years of domestic bliss . We lived together, we parented a dog like the world’s most devoted co-caretakers, and I had basically been absorbed into his family’s genealogy. Holidays spent in warm familial embrace, a seat at the table like I was one of their own, and— oh , let’s not forget—the moment I stood front and centre at his parents’ vow renewal, a groomsman alongside his family members. All the signs pointed to stability, commitment, love. And then. That Friday. I, ever the diligent and thoughtful partner, sent him a simple text—a reminder that our friends (not just mine, not just his—OURS) were coming over for drinks. A plan that he had proposed. I expected the usual response—something between excited anticipation and mild forgetfulness. But what did I receive instead? “Oh, totally forgot! I have a date, so I’ll be a little late.” I blinked. Surely, I misread....