What if instead of pining for Aether while away on tour, Dew broke off their relationship so he could focus and not feel muddled and tortured by those emotions. And during the time apart, he naturally grew away from Aether and felt this was a wise decision, to be single and open to other experiences. Meanwhile, what if Aether tried to be strong and wait, hoping to welcome Dew back, not only to the Ministry but into his heart. And then Dew came home, but not to him. And that's when Aether threw himself into the Pit.