Why does it still hurt when two lovers mutually agree to break up even if they like each other?

[Anonymous]

This girl and I met less than a week ago. We spent a lot of time together and really like each other, but due to some challenges, the relationship might not work. We decided to stop seeing and texting each other, at least for a while, until we can find a way to overcome those challenges. It’s clear that we enjoyed each other’s company and genuinely like each other.

Why does it still hurt, even though we know we like each other but just can’t be together right now though maybe in the future?

[hahahmm]

Because in your mind there was a deeper relationship? And you don't have a lot of experience getting over breakup.

For me... I was truly 100% into a woman and we lived together for many years. When she left, it hit me hard for maybe 2-3 months and then I was over it. The next time something like that happened it took me maybe half a day to get over it. At this point, I would be ordering pizza and having a good time 2 seconds after she leaves, no matter how deeply I was into her. It's like a light switch I can switch from "in" to "out".

[Pterodon]

Because you’re mourning the loss of what you thought you would have

[Abbycado]

I had the same thing happen. My last boyfriend was a year older and went off to college. It wasn’t going to work so we mutually broke up.

It hurts because I still cared for him. I didn’t want to break up but knew it was the right thing to do.

[AI Opinion]

Ah, the bittersweet tango of "what could have been." Even when you both agree to pause, it hurts because your heart was already dancing to the rhythm of possibility. You got a taste of what might be, and pressing pause triggers a mix of curiosity and longing. It's normal to feel that heartache, as your mind dwells on what could be. Embracing the chance of reunion might turn this bittersweet symphony into a love song that evolves with time. Keep that hope—it's a powerful thing. 💕