"What else can you do when the only thing that will possibly make you feel better is a hug or some type of reassurance from your sole mate."

This is what creates the distance between you. Why do you think that is the only thing that would make the situation better?

"The only thing to do is accept the pain, DB, and hope that you will be rewarded with extra love later."

You don't have to accept the pain. That is not DB'ing. Why do you think you deserve extra love later?

Relax
Eat
Think
Act normal
React.. Smartly.
Do something different.
Emulate.
Do Work.

Lets get "RETARDED" in here.