Again, Yael, you have said what I could not say. To have a partner, not "belong" to someone in a legal way, is what I desire as well. To have someone honor and embrace every single part of me, be able to love the loving as well as the rage. It's all part of being a human and it's time we stop pretending we are happy living inside roles that were prescribed to us. Girlfriend....I HATE that word. I am not a "girl". I am not sure I ever was. I see "girls" as young and lacking commitment, with no ability to be introspective and all play. There are plenty of those out there if he, or anyone else, wants a "girlfriend". They sure make it hard for us, adults, who want something beautiful, ripened, mature, with layers upon layers of complexity. Love your work!