When couples play make-believe: Simran Mangharam, on illusions in love

I used to be baffled by those who fake love online even when all their friends know how unhappy they are. I spoke to some; the lessons I learnt were intriguing.

Married for over a decade, a couple friend of ours (let’s call them Dia and Jacob) have had a tumultuous time. They have argued and fought, in public and in private; said awful things to and about each other.

Over and over, through the years, we in their circle of friends have thought it was the end. But they have pulled through every time.

What has felt truly confusing is that, online, their posts and photographs tell a completely different