So?

"It seems like you give in a lot to your husband"

"Huh?"

"I think you are very patient, that's why you don't mind giving in to your husband"

I smiled. What my room-mate (in the office) said reminded me of two dialogues I had ages ago. One when I just started working after finishing DPA course; the other with a close friend not long after I got married.

#####

"You know A.Z., there were a few guys who initially have interest in you during DPA. But then, everyone thought it's too risky to have a relationship with you. Mesti you kuat bengkeng, kuat melawan punya."

I gasped. What did I do that make them think so?

"You have a very strong personality. You always asked, no, you demanded for explanations. And you were good at whatever you attempted, it gets a bit intimidating. Most guys do not like being intimidated..."

#####

"You never said "so?" to Amin?"

"Huh?"

"You have always asked "so?" when ever you want further explanation. Or clarification. In fact, my husband had gotten so used to you asking "so?" that he sometimes do impersonation of you when he wants further explanation"

"Owh..."

#####

For the record, I think I have never asked hubby "so?" in that certain way that could be mimicked by my close buddy's husband.
I don't have to demand explanation from him - he knows better to fully explain himself.
And I don't think hubby has ever been intimidated by me.
And I do admit that I give in a lot.
Just as he does too.

After all, that's what marriage is all about - giving in and giving back.