After getting into my own cliche romance irl (Friends to lovers, grumpy/sunshine) I've realized that there's so much more to it than just stock sexual tension and forced bonding moments. It took me 6 months to even have feelings and then another 5 to finally act on them. It's not a perfect romance, but it's good. And my gf is the love of my life. I wouldn't have it any other way
When things break down, the best reminder is that your purpose is to make the relationship a safe space for your partner. Too often, we make the mistake of withdrawing because the other withdrew, but this does the opposite of what you actually want to achieve. Giving, in the end, is more fulfilling than receiving, and it solves so many problems.
After getting into my own cliche romance irl (Friends to lovers, grumpy/sunshine) I've realized that there's so much more to it than just stock sexual tension and forced bonding moments. It took me 6 months to even have feelings and then another 5 to finally act on them. It's not a perfect romance, but it's good. And my gf is the love of my life. I wouldn't have it any other way
When things break down, the best reminder is that your purpose is to make the relationship a safe space for your partner. Too often, we make the mistake of withdrawing because the other withdrew, but this does the opposite of what you actually want to achieve. Giving, in the end, is more fulfilling than receiving, and it solves so many problems.