Have you ever noticed how managing a relationship feels similar to managing your finances? Let me break it down for you in a way that’ll have you checking your ‘love credit score’ before your next date night.

Lovers: The Weekend Rental

Lovers are like those flashy cars you rent for the weekend. It’s all thrill and excitement, but come Monday, you’re more than happy to return them. No commitment, no strings attached; just a short-term joyride. Think of it as the free trial before the subscription kicks in.

Girlfriends: The Lease

Remember that time you got the latest gadget on lease because you weren’t quite sure if you’d like it? That’s girlfriends for you! They come with upgrade options, a little more commitment than rentals, but with a safety net. If things don’t work out, you can always wait for the next model to come out. And just like every lease, there’s always that fine print. Remember to read the “emotional needs” section very carefully.

Wives: The Long-Term Mortgage

Wives? They’re the homes you finance. It’s a long-term investment that you hope will appreciate over time. You’ve got your fixed monthly emotional installments, the yearly ‘anniversary maintenance’ costs, and of course, those unpredictable repair works (apologies for forgetting anniversaries!). And like every mortgage, there’s a beautiful feeling of having a place (or person) to call your own. But hey, remember to keep up with the payments, or you might just get evicted.

Ex-Wives: The Never-Ending Credit Card Debt

Ah, the ex-wives. They’re the debts that keep on giving (or in this case, taking?). Just when you thought you paid off that last installment, another unexpected charge pops up, reminding you of past shopping sprees (or misdeeds). Just a friendly reminder: always read the terms and conditions, especially when it’s handwritten on a wedding napkin.

Now, while this might paint a transactional view of relationships, let’s not forget the countless rewards points we accumulate in love’s economy. The late-night talks, the shared laughter, the inside jokes, and the memories – they’re the bonuses that don’t show up in the numbers.

But hey, next time you’re thinking of dipping your toes into the love market, remember to keep this financial guide handy. Love might be unpredictable, but with a little bit of humor, even its economics can be a fun puzzle to solve! And who knows, maybe your love stock market might be on the rise!

If you enjoyed reading this and want to show your support, you can check out my non-fiction and children’s books at edgarescoto.com.