Long-distance relationships require dedication and work.
One of the biggest challenges is maintaining good communication when two individuals are walking far apart. Another is the absence of physical intimacy.
Ashley and James dealt with it right away when they went to Paris to study abroad. They communicated frequently through text messages and video calls even after she moved back to New York and he moved to London.
Ashley said that while it was challenging, “watching his goofy smile light up my screen every night was worth it.”
She was ecstatic when he called one day saying he was coming to visit her.
She was looking forward to this day.
During the countdown, she meticulously planned every aspect of her stay, including what to wear, places to visit, great restaurants, and much more.
As the day drew nearer and nearer, Ashley’s mind was whirling with eagerness. She imagined all the endless things they would do together: catching up, exploring the city, and maybe even—well, you get the idea!
She saw James walk through the arrivals gate at the airport looking as handsome as she remembered.
As they embraced, it was as if there had never been any distance between them.
James was a lover of the city. The beauty of New York took his breath away.
James hinted at the surprise he had in store as evening approached. One of the most elegant restaurants was the one where he had reserved a table.
Everything including the food, company, and atmosphere was perfect.
“I wanted to make tonight special for you, Ash,” he said. Although the evening was quite pleasant, James struggled to find his wallet when it came time to pay the bill.
“I hate to ask Ashley, but my card isn’t working again and I don’t have any US dollars on me.
Are you able to handle it? I swear I’ll pay you right back tomorrow.”
Naturally, she didn’t worry too much about it and declared that it was no big deal.
Little did Ashley know that repeatedly paying his bill would turn this “temporary problem” into a major credit card crisis.
For each new date, James chose a fancy restaurant that exuded elegance, and when it came time to pay the bill, he made up various excuses.
As time went on, Ashley began to feel less like his girlfriend and more like a walking ATM.
One night, the two ended up at a rooftop bar with an amazing view of the city skyline. James sighed dramatically as they enjoyed their drinks. “It’s unbelievable that my card still doesn’t work. This is annoying,” he exclaimed.
He said that the time difference made things difficult, but that he would take care of it as quickly as possible until Ashley asked if he had tried calling his bank.
At that point, Ashley had already spent a small fortune on nights out with him.
James, what’s going on with your card? Ashley couldn’t help but ask one day as they were about to leave a fancy restaurant. The days passed.”
All he did was smile and promise to take care of it. “Okay, but this has to stop,” Ashley said.
“I understand and appreciate your understanding. It will be resolved soon,” James replied without delay.
James informed Ashley that he had a reservation at another fancy restaurant and that he would be spoiling her on her birthday.
Ashley was eager and dressed for the occasion, hoping to have a fantastic evening.
The romantic atmosphere was complemented by music and crystal chandeliers that sparkled like falling stars. But some things on the menu were too expensive; Ashley was able to order takeout for the week.
“Ashley, happy birthday. James kissed Ashley’s hand and said, “Tonight is all about you.
The entire evening was idyllic, but Ashley’s worries began when the bill arrived.
“I’m so sorry Ashley, but my government has frozen my account. There’s been a mix-up that I need to clear up with the embassy. Can you handle it?” The charming smile disappeared from his face. I will pay you back as soon as I have access to my funds,” he added.
Her heart sank. It was unbelievable to her that it happened once again on her birthday.
She had seen him use a perfectly good card the day before to pay for a brand-new watch, so she knew he wasn’t telling the truth.
He didn’t want to deceive her this time.
“Oh, James, I understand. These tangles of foreign banks can be a nightmare. But what’s the deal?” Ashley calmly replied, “I think I have a solution that might save us both from having to go to the consulate.”
She leaned over to whisper something in the waiter’s ear as she summoned him. Then the waiter turned and left. Maybe Ashley wasn’t the only one who suspected James was lying.
“I’m grateful, Ashley. “You’re a lifesaver,” James commented, sounding relieved.
“Don’t mention it. Birthdays are about honoring the individuals you care about, aren’t they?” Ashley replied, taking a sip from her drink.
She realized this was the right moment to impart some lifelong learning to James.
She smiled and whispered, “James, I have something to tell you,” looking him straight in the eye. I paid my share of the bill but the waiter decided to let you earn your dinner because it looks like you are living in financial trouble. To make up for it, they’re auctioning off a chef’s shift for free. “Boss James,” now they expect you to wash the dishes.
His face turned white as one would expect. “James, stop making excuses. He tried to defend himself, but she informed him, “This charade has gone on long enough.
He deserved it for trying to fool her for so long, even though he looked helpless.
“I’m sorry you couldn’t continue celebrating my birthday with friends. However, I hope this short detour to washing dishes will give you enough time to consider your latest – shall we say – creative accounting methods.” With pride, Ashley said.
Ashley took one last look at James, the guy she once loved, and wished him a good evening as she left the building.
Although Ashley’s long-distance relationship ended, she learned a valuable lesson from the whole thing.
Ashley’s long-distance relationship may have ended on a sour note, but it was a turning point that taught her invaluable lessons about self-esteem and boundaries. While the connection with James seemed genuine at first, his fraudulent behavior revealed his true character over time. Ashley realized that she was used to hurting herself, but Ashley’s reaction showed her strength and resilience. By standing her ground in the restaurant and making sure James faced the consequences of his dishonesty, she regained control of a situation that had long been unbalanced.
Trust is important in relationships, but so is recognizing when that trust is being abused. Ashley learned that love should never come at the cost of personal integrity or be built on lies. Her experience taught her that no matter how strong her feelings were, they deserved honesty and mutual respect. Leaving James wasn’t just a relationship break—it was a moment of empowerment and self-esteem.
When Ashley left the restaurant and the relationship, she understood that love should be about partnership, not manipulation. Although the long-distance aspect of their relationship presented its challenges, it was James’ behavior that ultimately led to his downfall. In the end, Ashley emerged stronger and more aware of her worth and clearly understood what she would no longer tolerate in future relationships.
This experience, though painful, became a source of empowerment that shaped her outlook on love and life moving forward.