If my W were still in Anger stage with me, that would be incredibly tough. I hated that period. In my sitch, Anger ended two months ago, and since she agreed to have the divorce dimissed / put on hold, she has been very congential, laughs a lot, is a pleasant conversationalist, but is still resolute in her quest to live a single, independent life (we no longer discuss why, it just "is"). Therefore, Replay stage continues with no talk or definable overatures regarding a possible reconcilation. Replay in her case involves having a boyfriend, hanging out with his friends, and to pushing for her time with the kids. She seems happy to just be their "friend". More like a fun aunt who they see a few times week for an hour or two at dinner, or driving D13 to a class.
The maddening thing is it is tantalizing that she is always so friendly. It is her preferred manner. However, all the while I still know there is the OM. Of course he is just a toy, a mere symptom of her MLC, but still, until she goes into Depression / Withdrawl (likely cycling back and forth for a bit with Replay), there can be no Awakening. All talk of "us" must remain on hold. She knows how I feel about her and OM, but I no longer express it and just show her happiness on my part. Another relief is that she's kept OM out of the kids lives and he has never been in their presence. She's obviously not too proud of OM, as she's never mentioned him to her family or friends from her former life. She is very good at compartmentization.
Later this afternoon will meet her to watch a tennis tournament involving D13. I will enjoy the opportunity be with her and watch our daughter. Got to take pleasure in whatever I can.
