Someone made a comment recently about never seeing a "failed date" in one of these scenarios. I think that would be great way out if TPTB intended for a couple to be together and it's just not working (for the general audience, because fandom is a different animal). Send them on a date and the characters realize they're attracted to each other, but they're just not right for each other. It's realistic though, so what do I know? *g*

One of many things that I loved so much about Freaks and Geeks was a story line where Sam finally attained the girl of his dreams. He'd admired her from afar, they'd always been friendly. One day, the stars lined up right and they started dating. And he discovered that he really didn't like her very much. I loved that! I wish we saw more of that kind of stuff on television--people getting what they think they want, and then learning that it's something else altogether that's right for them.