Beth and I share a Blockbuster account that dates back to early in our relationship; it was one of our first “us” things that we did as a couple. For me, getting that joint account was a serious step toward commitment. But the bloom is off the video rose and I’ve been considering breaking up.

The problem is that Beth can not, will not, does not return movies on time. So we get hit with late fees every friggin’ time we go to rent movies. Right now, in fact, there are two movies sitting on the entertainment center at home that are at least a month overdue. It’s maddening to me. So when I was in Fort Smith a month ago and I wanted to rent movies one night but didn’t have our BB card, I started my own account.

I got to use my new card last Saturday. I was about to check out Matrix Reloaded when I remembered the overdue movies and got all pissed off because I didn’t want to have to pay the late fees (again!). Then I remembered my new, personal, Chuck-only, unsullied-by-late-movies membership card and got happy again. I was giddy with glee and smug with satisfaction that A) I didn’t have to pay Beth’s late fees, and B) I wouldn’t have to pay late fees on this because I would return it on time. Me renting solo was going to be a whole different story.

Matrix was due back Tuesday night. Except it’s on the entertainment center right next to the other late movies. Late.

Maybe Beth wasn’t the problem after all…