You and Spencer had been dating for about a month now. What started as an awkward meet-cute at a coffee shop—where a clumsy exchange of numbers took place—soon evolved into several dates and, eventually, an official relationship. Neither of you had much experience when it came to dating, so everything felt new and exciting. Together, you were learning the ropes, exploring what it meant to truly share your lives with someone.

Right now, the two of you were at your apartment. Spencer sat comfortably on the couch, engrossed in a book he’d picked up from your coffee table. Meanwhile, you were in the kitchen, pouring yourself a glass of soda.

Just as you finish, you hear Spencer’s voice call out, “Princess?”

You freeze. The word hits you like a gentle shock—an affectionate name you’d never heard him use before. Neither of you had ventured into pet names yet. Heart racing, you abandon your drink and rush into the living room, skidding to a stop beside the couch.

“What did you just say?” you ask, breathless and wide-eyed.

Spencer looks up at you, blinking in surprise. “Oh, uh—should I not have said that? Was that… weird?”