You know what a rebound is: the person you date after a major breakup. Where you’re all raw and bloody from the last go-round and either overly eager to try again or hesitant that you can ever make it work.

The same concept goes for web designers. And recently, we had the opportunity to become a rebound designer.

She told him she wanted an online brochure. He informed her she didn’t need that.

She asked him to move social networking links above the fold. He told her he couldn’t.

She wanted a face to face meeting to discuss outstanding issues. He told her no. Despite sharing a zip code.

After all that, she did not end up with the site she wanted. But you know what? She paid him anyway. And I get why she did that. Sometimes it’s worth it to pay to be rid of somebody who only brings bad energy. It was probably not necessary, and in fact they didn’t even have a contract. But you know what it was? It was classy of her. And I like classy.

My heart went out to her. I could only listen sympathetically and hope she knew I wouldn’t treat her as badly. I could only promise to be realistic with capabilities and timing and promise that I appreciate erring on the side of over-communication rather than being silent. And I ensured her that I most likely will never say “no.” More likely, if there is a reason that her request isn’t the best thing for her, I will suggest something to accomplish the same goal.

I’m apprehensive about being the rebound designer. But the fact is, I married my rebound relationship. And ten years later, we’re doing just fine.