When are we asking for too much?

Modern-day society has made romance complicated — or maybe I just haven’t found someone who understands my kind of love. Am I asking for too much when I want a love like the one my favourite songs describe? Does that kind of love even exist?

You might wonder what I’m actually asking for. Truthfully, I’m still figuring that out. But it’s something like small, thoughtful gestures along the way — a sticky note on the mirror wishing me a good day, coffee made in the morning, hearing that something reminded them of me, a gentle kiss on the hand, or rubbing my feet while we watch TV. Simple things that make me feel loved.

Is that really too much to ask?

I’ve been in relationships where affection was constant — endless cuddling, frequent “I love yous,” and being told I was missed. While beautiful in its own way, it also felt suffocating. Maybe it just wasn’t with the right person.

Now more than ever, I question what my heart truly wants. I have a loving partner who shows his love through physical touch. He genuinely cares for me. And yet, somehow, it doesn’t feel like enough.

In return, I show love through small acts of service — making tea, preparing lunch, taking care of things around the house, asking if he needs anything. We love differently. Maybe we’re simply misaligned.

I often feel guilty for not giving him the kind of love he longs for. But perhaps I can’t give it because it isn’t my love language.

Maybe I’m ungrateful. Maybe I’m sensing a deeper incompatibility. Maybe our story has run its course.

Or maybe I’m just afraid of making the wrong decision.

And that fear hurts him most of all.

Just me, a cup of coffee, and a thought I can’t shake.

What’s yours?