Relationships, especially romantic attachments, are transactional. When we make a choice, our partner can choose as well. However, the two decisions may not be the same. We can negotiate, but sometimes negotiation isn’t possible. While we may want a romantic attachment to continue, if our partner has a different idea, the relationship may not survive.

The nature of choice is complex. It involves selecting one option and leaving others behind. Letting go of possibilities. Choice affects how a relationship evolves and if it will end. Every day, we make decisions in a relationship—when to have dinner, how to handle anger, whether to move to a new city.