In this excerpt from "Voyager" by Diana Gabaldon, a character cynically remarks about a man's long-term marriage, suggesting that a single night of restraint would not be detrimental to him. The humor in his comment highlights a casual attitude toward relationships and intimacy, implying that one night of holding back is inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. This reflects a broader theme of the complexities of romantic entanglements.

The conversation shifts focus to the notion of abstinence impacting emotions, with a character playfully correcting the speaker's phrase to highlight that absence makes the heart grow fonder, not firmer. This witty exchange underlines the idea that true emotional connections are deepened by longing and absence, rather than simply enduring restraint. The dialogue captures the intricacies of love, relationships, and the misunderstandings that often accompany them.