You know my advice runs counter to 98% of the advice on this board, so we can both expect others to disagree. But, I managed to save my marriage with my own advice, and I have the benefit of having learned from the Retrouvaille program, so I continue to hold my own here.
I am proud of the way you handled yourself with her. You stood tall and asked for what you wanted -- no crying, begging, manipulation, games etc. And you got as much of a response as she is ready to give.
First of all, she was not prepared for the question. She didn't have a well thought out answer at hand. Secondly, you are different than the way she remembers you. What you need is face time with her so she can see the new you. Running the dogs is exactly that -- time to just be the new you with her, no strings attached. So take it. But don't pursue her to get it. Be patient and keep the upright man disposition you used today whenever talking to her.
I respect your advice, because you speak YOUR truth.
Thank you for your compliment and support.
I agree, we need face time, but I'm not going to pursue it. It's in her court. I'm also feeling like not waiting for it either. That's my problem. I'm tired of dragging around my bum limb and I'm thinking of amputating it.
