In North Carolina, absolute divorces are almost always obtained on the basis of one year’s separation. After spouses have lived separate and apart continuously for one year, with the intent of at least one of the spouses not to resume the marital relationship and without actually resuming the marital relationship, either spouse may obtain an absolute divorce. Sleeping in separate bedrooms is not a separation for purposes of absolute divorce. Attempts at reconciliation marked by isolated instances of sexual intercourse will not automatically end the period of continuous separation; however, instances of sexual intercourse and nights spent together may add to the totality of circumstances sufficient to cause a court to find that the parties have voluntarily renewed the marital relationship. If it is determined that spouses have renewed the marital relationship, the twelve-month clock will be reset.