When my boyfriend told me he needed a “break,” I thought he meant a few days to clear his head. I didn’t realize it was actually a secret loyalty test—one I apparently failed by adopting a dog.
Jack and I had been together for two years. We were happy—or so I thought. Then, out of nowhere, he became distant. When I asked what was wrong, he said he needed space. “Just a few weeks to work on myself,” he insisted. “We’re not breaking up. Just… pausing.”
I didn’t believe in breaks, but I agreed. Then he disappeared. No texts, no calls—just radio silence for six weeks. I mourned the relationship, assuming it was over. To cope, I started volunteering at an animal shelter, where I met an old, gentle dog who immediately stole my heart. Since Jack was allergic, I’d never been able to have a pet. But now? There was nothing stopping me.
I brought him home.
Then, like a bad plot twist, Jack reappeared. He texted out of the blue: “I’m back. Let’s talk.” The next day, he showed up at my apartment, all smiles, acting like his disappearance had never happened—until he saw the dog.
“I knew you’d replace me!” he yelled.
“Replace you… with a dog?”
“This was a test! To see if you’d wait for me! And you couldn’t even last six weeks!”
I stared at him, horrified. His “break” had been a setup—a way to gauge my loyalty. He’d even planned to propose, but now, because I’d adopted a pet, I’d “proven” I wasn’t committed.
I kicked him out. Later, he posted online about how I’d “failed” him, which only made him look unhinged. Even his mom called to apologize.
Now, I’m happier than ever—with a dog who’s way better company than a manipulative ex. Lesson learned: if someone needs to “test” you, they’re not worth your time.
