Have been seeing a much younger woman (20s, I am in my 40s) for over 3.5 years. Have recently been having feelings that she isn't ready to really take it to the next level yet (i.e., she still wants to experience things on her own being so young. which I have respected). I was on the verge of setting up some boundaries because of this to not have unrealistic expectations for the future but still be 'cool' until she was ready.
Unfortunately, we got into a HUGE argument about politics of all things, and in the heat of the argument I probably said some things to make her think it is over. During the argument could tell because of my stance she was questioning whether she could deal with me further, and for that I definitely got under her skin, said something along the lines of if she doesn't like it she can leave and she stormed out.
Usually if we have argued (we haven't much) we have been quick to connect and make up -- including on things that imho were much worse. But this was different, as I could tell it hit a nerve for her on a personal level and I said things to get under skin at a time she was probably fragile. My mistake and lack of maturity for someone older, but it was the heat of the argument and can't take it back.
Regardless, I wanted a few days for each of us to cool down and then sent her a pretty heartfelt text which she has not responded to, as well as a gift that was delivered she hasn't acknowldged. Has been over a week and no response whatsoever. She does not have a lot of relationship experience and I got the sense she was shocked I had a different opinion on something personal to her and that I intentionally hurt her feelings with my words during the argument (have been sweet as pie to her for the most part since day 1).
Having been in a number of relationships, I initially looked at it as a bad argument we'd get over eventually -- but realize with her age, some emotional immaturity and lack of relationship experience, she probably hasn't dealt with this before and it may be different.
Given the age difference, what I was already feeling about the lack of trying to take it to the next level, and the silence from her for over a week, do most here think just let it go and that her silence has indicated she has moved on, so do the same? Or do some think reach out again just to be sure? While I am not sure marriage etc would be in the cards given the different stages of our lives, I do care about her and would hate for our long term dynamic to end completely over one stupid argument about politics -- although I know how passionate people can get over it.
Anyway, curious to get people's opinions. I had planned to reach out to her one more time (and I think it is possible she blocked my number) in the next few days, but that would be it after that. Thanks!