“I know I can't give you the perfect relationship you want, Mabel. But I also can't let you go,” I started, my voice tight with desperation. “I can't stand seeing you with someone else. You're driving me crazy, Mabel.”

“Perfect relationship?” she continued, her gaze unwavering as she urged me to go on.

“I want a relationship, but with no strings attached. Just sex, Mabel.”

“Steve, I-”

“Exclusively, Mabel,” I cut her off, the words spilling out in a desperate rush. ...