Two names. Two options. One promised the security and familiarity she had become accustomed to, on an indefinite basis. Essentially, that name promised “forever.” It promised no jolting, no sudden pulls and pushes. It promised everything she felt was home.

The other name promised excitement and butterflies. But it was a change. Not just a change of company, but a change of lifestyle. Friends would change too. It might make her family happy, that change, but she risked everything she had grown to love as her life for what might only be a honeymoon period.

Name one was her girlfriend of nine years on and off. She came with the love and tenderness that could only be found in relationships that had lasted so long. It was a mature love, in bloom, one that was steady and sure. It would not fade. Years of history gave it a glow and the voice that owned the name would always speak softly. You could always hear love in a voice like that.

Name two was his. Again, a face she’d known for years but, largely, had only ever known as a friend – save for an experimental fling when they were both learning about themselves. But his name had suddenly developed a tingling it never had before, an excitement that it failed to bring the last time that they met up. It was sudden and new and came with no promises. It was unexpected, not homely. At least, not yet. But doesn’t there always come a time when someone wants to leave home? Travel? Not physically. But at least, the heart desired an adventure and while he came without promise, he did come with love. And he did come with honest intentions.

Two names. Two options.

But the head has no say when the heart takes charge.