Tino found himself in a rabbit hole. At what point does a romantic relationship start? Is there a proclamation that is made at its onset? Is there a question that is popped? In fact, what is the definition of a “relationship”? 

All these questions needed answers. Quickly. Tasha expected a call the following day. Tino had promised to call. He had no idea what to say or how he would say it. Will he ask Tasha all these questions?

He decided to play it cool, whatever that meant. At exactly ten-thirteen, Tino called Tasha. His timing was impeccable. Tasha was sitting on the sofa, reading fiction. 

“Good morning Natasha”

“Good morning Tinotenda”

What could be inferred from these formal salutations? Was it a sign of intimacy? Easy Tino, be cool.

The conversation was an easy one, much to Tino’s relief. He didn’t have to put in too much effort. By the end of the phone call, Tino knew he was now in a relationship. At least the very first stages of one. 

There was no proclamation of a romantic relationship starting. No question was popped. There was just a general feeling of exclusivity and intimacy. By the end of the phone call, Tino felt a heavy burden of expectation from Tasha. He was expected to be something and to do some things.

Is that how a relationship starts? Is that how it is defined? A mutual expectation to be exclusively something and to intimately do some things?