The Campus Printer Decides My Essay Is Simply Not Meant to Be

Relationships are based on mutual respect, consistency, and support. For two years, I thought we had that. But last night, when I needed him the most, the campus printer made it clear that he no longer respects me. 

“Error: Paper Jam.” he screeched as I clicked “print.”

I restarted him, hoping that the reset would remind him of who we were. What we had. But it didn’t.

Looking back, the red flags were there. The “low toner” threats. The “paper jam” excuses. The way he’d go offline for hours without explanation. Still, I stayed. I believed in us. But last night, he showed me his true colors: black and white, nothing else.

In a moment of desperation, I ran to the library. I thought maybe this printer would be different. Kinder. More available. 

“Paper Jam. I need space.” 

God. The most predictable line in the breakup playbook. 

I’ve already placed an order for a personal printer. One that will respect me.

It’s time to move on. Some relationships just aren’t meant to last.