Not that these two lovers would prefer an alternate ending, where they are kept apart from each other, but that Kierkegaard’s observation seems to show itself to be true, as it relates to their situation. For the regret they will endure, as a result of any action or inaction on their part, is to be found in either direction, though it is of different kinds, and originates in different reasons. In that now they must deal with whatever estrangement or anger or grief their choice will have brought upon their relationship with the girl’s family, whereas, before, they would’ve had to experience the loss of one another romantically, and in terms of physical nearness, though the girl’s relationship to her family could’ve remained intact.