Revisting [The Doberman]

Hi Besties, I’m back again with another discussion post.

I’m re-reading The Doberman for about the 5th time and despite what I’m about to say (this is unpopular) I actually do like the story.

However, I’m questioning if anyone else felt that Johan and Melanie’s relationship is grounded in limerence and not actual love.

From Mel’s perspective, I feel her connection with him is based off of entertaining the possibility that their relationship wouldn’t work but it was cool to have that what if with a rich, powerful mobster. She was aware that he didn’t want to commit, why, his inconsistencies & flaws, but kept going back to him because ?

And for most of the story, the activity they shared the most was physical.

I’m not sure but wondering if anyone feels the same or possibly can give me insight.