Compatibility
Cancer and Capricorn
Capricorn pays for the roof. Cancer knows which window the morning light comes through.
Together
Opposite signs, and the oldest axis in the book: home and career, the inside and the outside of a life. Cancer looks after what happens behind the door. Capricorn looks after what pays for the door. Each has what the other lacks, which is why they are drawn together and why they misunderstand each other with such dedication.
Both are cardinal and both are more cautious than anyone guesses. Cancer protects feelings, Capricorn protects plans, and they share a deep suspicion of anyone in a hurry.
Love
Capricorn loves through reliability, and Cancer, who has been let down before, finds that more romantic than flowers. Cancer loves through care, and Capricorn, who has been looking after everyone since childhood, is stunned to be looked after. The trouble begins when Capricorn works late again and Cancer starts counting the dinners eaten alone.
Friendship
Steady and old-fashioned. They will host the same holiday dinner for twenty years, Capricorn with the seating chart, Cancer with the gravy.
Work
A family firm in spirit even when it is not one. Capricorn sets the targets, Cancer keeps the people who meet them. Sturdy and slow, in the good sense.
Where it breaks
Warmth. Capricorn's restraint reads as coldness to Cancer, Cancer's moods read as chaos to Capricorn, and both retreat into the roles they know best.
The frog's verdict
Three stars, built to last if they are maintained. Once a month, swap jobs for an evening. Capricorn plans nothing, Cancer plans everything, and each learns what the other has been carrying.