Three years ago, "I want to see you" was usually followed by plans for weeks into the future and a two-and-a-half hour long drive. It involved interstate highways, tolls and Friday night departures to make the most of our weekend together. Long distance meant too few days physically together, but it didn't matter because we loved each other and even if we couldn't always say it in person, that alone would be strong enough to cut through the miles."But doesn't that time apart make it so much better when you're finally together again?" my friends would ask.
"Yeah, that gets old and quick," I'd quip.
Imagine getting into an argument and all you receive once everything's been settled is a :). No kiss, no hug, no makeup sex. Still, you stick it out, hug that bear he gave you, you miss him and count down the days until you meet him at the train station again. And you do this over and over...until it's over.
Nowadays, "I want to see you" is followed by plans for the evening and a 40-minute train ride. It involves subway delays, Metrocards and walks through the Upper East Side. Living close to each other allows for spontaneity and "I'll see you tomorrow" while secretly wondering why he hasn't tired of you yet. Goodbyes are no longer accompanied by tears because, hey, you'll see him again in a few days.
Even though my relationship with A. is progressing much quicker because we spend so much time together, I can't say I cared for Mr. First any less because he lived three states away. It might have been tough at times, but when we were finally together, it was as if we'd never been apart at all. And even though I see A. all the time, sometimes it still feels like we haven't seen each other in weeks.
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