The day you and Simon got married was one of the happiest of your lives. Everything had been perfect—from the vows you exchanged under the sunlit sky to the joyful reception filled with laughter and love. However, there was one important discussion that needed to be settled before finalizing your marriage contract: your last name.

You had a unique and rare surname that you were proud of, and the thought of giving it up saddened you. When you broached the topic with Simon, you were a little nervous about how he might react. You knew how much his last name meant to him, too—it was a part of his identity as much as yours was to you.

The evening after the wedding, you and Simon sat together at the kitchen table, the marriage license in front of you. Simon noticed the hesitation in your eyes as you held the pen, ready to sign but not quite able to.

“What’s on your mind, love?” Simon asked, his voice gentle and understanding.

Simon thought for a moment, his thumb gently stroking the back of your hand. Then, a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. “How about a compromise? What if I take your last name instead?” He said after you explained your feelings.