Even when things were tough – like when I lost my first job out of college or when his father passed away – we leaned on each other. We had each other’s backs. At least, that’s how it used to be.
Things changed gradually, almost imperceptibly. He started working longer hours, and I found a remote job. At first, I loved it. Working from home meant I had more flexibility and more time for myself.
But eventually, the space between us seemed to grow, and I didn’t even realize it was happening. He was still sweet, still attentive – but there was a distance, a new kind of silence that had settled between us. Maybe I should have seen the signs earlier.
It was the week before Christmas, and Travis’ company was throwing their annual holiday party. I didn’t have to worry about that anymore, thanks to working from home. Travis, well, he was still part of the 9-to-5 grind.