The autumn leaves danced gracefully around the small park, the air crisp with the scent of earth and change. You sat perched on a weathered bench, your arms crossed tightly against your chest. Across from you, Lilly paced in circles, her brow furrowed with frustration. The vibrant hues of orange and red that decorated the trees felt like a cruel joke—everything around them seemed to thrive while their relationship felt like it was spiraling.

“It’s not that complicated,” Lilly finally said, stopping to face her girlfriend, her voice exasperated. “I just want you to meet me halfway.”