Invisible Girlfriend

Peri was tired of being the docile one, tired of waiting for him to call, tired of hiding from their friends, and tired of being ignored if she tried to initate anything.

At dinner last night with a mutual friend, Peri learned of Alan's jealous habits. Supposedly one night Peri'd been at the bar and a man had his arm around her. Alan walked in, took one look at her, and left.

Peri had stopped dating Jeremy two months ago when she thought there was a chance with Alan. Furthermore, she had plenty of male friends that would be affectionate with her. Whereas, Alan seemed incapable of being the least bit affectionate in public. For more than a year all she'd wanted was to be a part of Alan's life and was always brushed aside.

She'd learned early in her relationships with men that it is easier and less painful to simply walk away than to beg for attention. Although her propensity toward flight left her single and alone, she prefered it.

Things between them were amazing when they were together; however, Alan wasn't honest with or about her. No one should be shoved to the back of the closet. She didn't want to be anyone's dirty little secret.

What was so wrong with being open? What sort of judgement was he so scared of?