Ladydi,
If that is the case (stepping stone) so be it (no need to apologize). The other option has not worked out so far, therefore, a new strategy is in order. In the last couple of days as strange as this sounds, W seems to be struggling with our sitch. I see her looking at me differently. The wall is still up and I am certain she has made some type of announcement to various people. Knowing her the way I know her, there is no way she will lose face and at least not have a seperation.
I don't know how some other people on this board feeel but hanging on to some type of hope that this will get fixed is probably not very healthy.