You have always been independent and did everything on your own. In your previous relationships, you also took care of everything by yourself, so it’s no wonder that when you stopped, they fell apart. Now, it felt strangely nice when you returned home and the apartment was clean or the smell of food was in the air. That had always been your task. You were always the one doing everything.

You were preparing lunch. Traditionally, as you chopped the onion, tears flowed from your eyes. “I’ll help you,” Lewis said, taking the cutting board from you. “I can do it, Lewis” you wanted to take it back. “I know you can, but let me help you, baby,” he began to chop.