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Glossary

Hoovering

What it means

Hoovering (named after the vacuum) is any attempt to pull you back into contact after you leave — sweet messages, apologies that quietly blame you, sudden crises, or contact through friends and family. It usually feels like proof they've changed. It's more often proof that losing access to you feels bad.

What it can look like

Six weeks of silence. Then a birthday text: 'I've been doing so much thinking. I know I wasn't perfect. I miss the way we laughed.' Your chest tightens. Nothing in the message says what they'll actually do differently.

What you can do

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