Anyone who enjoys reading will know that every good book comes with a big risk – and no, we’re not talking about getting a paper cut. (Or an electric shock from your kindle if you’re a 21st century type person).

We refer, of course, to the agony and ecstasy that is falling completely and irrevocably in love with a fictional character.

Here’s 19 things only those who have caught serious lifelong feelings for someone who ISN’T REAL (it hurt even writing that) will understand.

When you first realize that you’ve fallen into the abyss and that you’re never getting out:

And well and truly succumb to what your life is now:

Because what else does anyone really need, in all honesty?

When you’re filling out a form and the box that you really need to check isn’t there:

You’ve come to terms with the fact that monogamy is just totally not a thing when fictional worlds are involved:

Family gatherings can get a bit awkward when your grandma asks if you’re seeing someone:

Also just this:

Which then leads to this:

You’ve considered ending friendships with people who dare to suggest that you might be better off trying to find someone IRL:

Not that it really bothers you, because you know what’s up:

Your own brain likes to break your heart all over again because apparently it’s a masochist:

And this is the best possible scenario you could ever imagine:

When you realize that all real, human men have been ruined for you:

But that it’s got nothing to do with looks:

And that you will die alone, surrounded by a pile of books:

But y’know, if you DO miraculously find someone who can live up to your now sky-high expectations, your children should be prepared:

Because they’re real to you:

Yep. Now if you’ll excuse us, our boyfriend is waiting for us on page 376.

By Lizzie Cox