Lack of affection?
Yesterday my boyfriend (5 months together) decided that it wasn't working for him, that I can't fulfil his expectations, mainly I'm not affectionate enough. I tried to stay calm and cool about it although it hurt massively and I was crying my eyes out, but I suggested we could stay friends and meet up sometimes to talk as we're both into philosophy and science...
But then I started to examine myself to see if I really wasn't affectionate.
Whenever we were together we were practically stuck to each other, kissing, holding hands, having sex. I enjoyed it although it was becoming a bit, I don't know, needy. Like he needed constant attention. Every single week when he came round for a few days I cooked a lovely meal for him after I finished work, we watched films together and cuddled, or we went out to town to have a couple of beers/cinema/galleries - the usual. I messaged him every day, many times a day (on days when we weren't together) as he said he's used to this kind of thing - I really dedicated plenty of time to him despite having to work and looking after my daughter (who obviously also requires attention!). I supported him every time when he was feeling down/anxious/nervous about his university or lack of planning skills, I suggested solutions to his problems.
I told him many compliments along the way, bought him thoughtful presents, most of the time paid for food & wine we had together.
I tried to look nice every time, paying attention to even little things in my appearance.
So... I don't know. I can't really see myself as a non-affectionate robot somehow in this case :/
Anybody had a similar experience? Do you think the actual reason for his reaction was something totally different and this "lack of affection" was just an empty phrase thrown in my face instead? Or is he playing one of those NT games - "I'm running away slowly, now show how much you care and chase me"? *facepalm* I bloody won't (did it in the past with others and it's just a torture, especially first time when you really don't understand the game).
Honestly, I was giving him more affection than I give to my daughter (and I give her loads, she always says she loves my hugs, being with me and doing things together and that I'm way nicer and "warmer" than her friends' mothers - so yes, I CAN do it).
I guess it's time for me to give a lot of affection to myself and stop whining
Maybe I simply need a robot boyfriend with a clear manual ![]()
