When John met Laura, he knew that she was different. They had an instant connection that they couldn't ignore. As they were getting to know each other better, John began to develop feelings for Laura, but she made it clear that she was not interested in a serious relationship.
Laura was the kind of person who liked to keep things casual. She didn't want the responsibility of being in a committed relationship, but she still enjoyed having someone to spend time with. John wasn't sure how he felt about being in a friends with benefits relationship, but he was willing to try.
For the next few months, John and Laura saw each other regularly. They would go out for drinks or dinner, and then head back to one of their apartments for some fun. John enjoyed spending time with Laura, but he couldn't shake the feeling that he wanted something more.
As time went on, John and Laura's relationship started to feel less like a friendship and more like a casual hookup. They didn't go out as much, and they didn't talk about anything personal. It was all about sex.
John realized that he didn't want to be in a friends with benefits relationship anymore. He wanted a real connection with someone. Laura wasn't willing to give him that, so he ended things between them.
Looking back, John realized that the most appropriate stage for a friends with benefits relationship was early on in a friendship. It was when there was still room for growth and development, but also an opportunity to explore something more casual. If two people are looking for the same thing, then a friends with benefits relationship can be fun and satisfying. But if one person just wants sex, then it's time to move on.