"I'm going clubbing after work"

Feeling slightly let down, you text back, "you sure?"

Alice replies, "yeah, you know how tough work has been. I just need to let my hair down."

Eager to at least spend some time with her tonight, you text and say, "want me to come with you?"

A few minutes pass, and Alice replies, "no it's going to be a girl's night out".

"Okay," you reply, "have fun. When are you leaving?"

Alice texts back, "I brought my dress to work, I'm changing and leaving from here. We're going to eat dinner and catch an early movie first."

You text, "okay, give me a call if you need a ride home".

"I will, and thanks. Love you!"

The rest of your workday is an emotional and professional flatline. You were really looking forward to spending time with her tonight, but understand her work stress has been high and that she might just want to unwind in her own way. Still, to some degree it hurts, but you know you'll get over it and continue with your day as best you can. Your workday comes to a close, you go home and have a microwave dinner, and spend some time browsing the internet and watching television.

Then, your phone vibrates.