He put on a performance that was so calculated, the calculator didn't compute. A spurt of love bombing. A covering of dirt. That false plea for affection, for attention. It was effective. Severing the cord of vital communication with a heart flame that fizzed; sizzled out. The goal of painting a picture of false intimacy was accomplished. Noticing the patterns wasn't enough. The source had to be uncovered. The messages weren't deleted. The energy was still being read. The performance was so memorable, it was quickly found for reference. He said things that weren't normally said in ways that weren't his own. She knew it was a show. He chased her down; only offered what he wanted, so she refused. It can shine a spotlight on the benefits of life without marriage. She questioned spending a lifetime with anyone after mentally escaping one that never happened. After getting used to the treatment, even while knowing that it wasn't deserved. It's simple. There's more to life. She knew it as well as she knew the facts. That past pain will only repeat itself until confronted. So she confronted it. - E. Ex.