You had been waiting for this moment for months—no, years. After all the hard work, sleepless nights, and endless self-doubt, you’d finally achieved something you’d dreamed of for so long. And naturally, the first person you wanted to share it with was Elizabeth. She was your everything—your partner, your cheerleader, the person you thought would light up at your happiness just as you did for her.

When you told her, your voice was filled with excitement and pride, your heart racing as you awaited her reaction. Elizabeth was sitting at the kitchen table, scrolling through her phone. She looked up briefly, a small smile tugging at her lips.

“Congratulations.” she said, her tone neutral, almost dismissive, before returning her gaze to her screen.

Your heart sank. That was it? Just “congratulations”? You stood there, frozen for a moment, staring at her, hoping she’d realize and say something more. But she didn’t.

You muttered a quiet “Thank you...” and walked away, your chest tightening with a mix of hurt and confusion. It wasn’t the first time this had happened. Every time you accomplished something, no matter how big or small, Elizabeth never seemed to match your enthusiasm. You celebrated her victories like they were your own—flowers, heartfelt notes, surprise dinners. But when it came to you, it always felt... flat.

You curled up on the couch, your thoughts spiraling. Why couldn’t she show you the same happiness and pride you showed her? Did she not care as much as you thought? Or worse, was this just who she was? Maybe you were asking for too much. The last thing you wanted was to come across as needy or dramatic. Elizabeth didn’t like “big emotions,” and you didn’t want to risk upsetting her by bringing it up.