The Possibilities of Polyamory

Typically, Jade goes into relationships wholeheartedly but unlearning a lifetime of monogamy has proven to be more complicated than she imagined. She has been blundering her way through dating sites and polyamory mixers. So of course, she would have some hesitation before her first date with a seasoned polyamorous person who has a thriving polycule. Jade couldn't help but stand in her bathroom mirror and imagine how things could go with Sahriya.

Scenario one, the first date goes very well. They hit it off and continue to date and get to know each other. After a couple of weeks of dating Sahriya introduces Jade to her two other partners, Orial and Milo. Jade is a bit nervous and guarded at first but opens up and realizes she has a lot in common with her metas (partners of her partner). Months pass into years as Jade and Sahriya's relationship strengthens. Jade gets more confident in her polyamory practices and is able to sustain a nesting partner, and a casual commit relationship. Over time everyone in the polycule creates natural relationships with each other and they build a fulfilling life on their terms.

Scenario two, the date goes well. Over the coming weeks Jade and Riya continue to see each other. Riya notices Jade is struggling to let go of the lessons monogamy taught her. Jade constantly compares their relationship to Riya and her nesting partner Orial, and can't help but see her metas as competition. Jade’s jealousy begins to start more and more arguments until Riya feels forced to keep Jade parallel or separate from her lives with other partners. Riya attempts to be patient while Jade works through and processes her feelings. As the months go by both of them get drained by the stress of maintaining their relationship. Eventually Jade comes to the conclusion that she needs to take a step back. She must work on her own personal growth by going to therapy, reading books on polyamory, and getting to know her needs before attempting to date. Sahriya is supportive of her decision, and they go their separate ways. They bump into each other years later at a social mixer and reestablish a friendship.

Scenario three, the date is scattered with awkward silences and small talk. The date was unremarkable, but decent enough to try again. Jade and Riya see each other a few times over the next couple months. Due to Riya's busy schedule balancing work, life, and her relationships, she's only able to spare a small amount of energy for Jade. Jade expresses her need for more of Riya’s time which causes friction between them. Months pass by and the relationship fizzles out. Jade leaves with a better understanding of what she needs and goes in search of a connection that has the capacity to make her a priority.

The sudden sound of the doorbell jolted Jade from her daydreams. The actual evening commenced. When she returned home, she sprawled out on her bed, smirking going over the details in her mind. Jade didn't know which outcome this entanglement would have, fruitful or sour. But she was intrigued to find out.