Sean, it sounds like this dream left quite an impact on you. Dreams involving ex-partners can often relate to unresolved feelings or situations in our waking life. The act of buying Chad, your ex, a laptop could symbolize a part of you that still feels invested in his well-being or success despite the relationship ending. This investment isn't necessarily romantic; it might reflect unresolved guilt, a desire for closure, or the habit of taking responsibility for others' actions.
Chad's frustration and destructive reaction to the laptop in your dream could represent feelings of powerlessness or anger you associate with him or the relationship. It might indicate that you feel your efforts to help or support him were unappreciated or led to conflict. The dream points to a dynamic where you feel that you're not being acknowledged for your contributions, and instead, are being blamed for things outside your control.
The violence at the end, where he punches you and gives you a black eye, is particularly alarming. In the dream world, this could symbolize emotional pain from the past that still feels very real and present. It might be a sign that the relationship left you with deep emotional scars and that part of you feels victimized or hurt by his actions or attitude, even now.
Given the negative feelings and the intensity you've experienced, it's important to reflect on how these themes might be playing out in your life. Having such a dream suggests that there might be lingering issues regarding self-worth, boundaries, or unresolved emotional business with Chad that could be worth exploring further in your personal reflections.
Healing from past relationships, especially those that ended on a sour note, can take time and self-compassion. Recognizing the strengths you've gained and the lessons learned can be empowering. Acknowledge your resilience, Sean, and give yourself the space to process these emotions, which are clearly still very present for you.