My slow-burn love story 👩🏻👨🏾 (Part 1/2)

You know, when I started sharing my own love story, I realized just how much people are drawn to the idea of a 'slow burn.' And honestly, who can blame us? In a world of instant gratification, there's something incredibly romantic about a relationship that builds organically, brick by brick, from a solid foundation. It’s not about grand gestures right away, but about countless small moments that weave two lives together. So, what really are the signs of a slow-burn love? For me, it was always about the depth of our connection before anything romantic even sparked. It starts with genuine friendship, where you share pivotal moments, like meeting at an 'MLK Day '14' event, painting murals side-by-side, or navigating the chaos of college. You become each other's confidantes, seeing past the superficial to the core of who they are. You find yourselves sharing everything, from your favorite music to your deepest struggles, without even realizing you're building something truly special. The 'illustration' of a slow burn isn't a dramatic Hollywood scene; it's the quiet comfort of being understood, the laughter over inside jokes, and the unwavering support through thick and thin. Attraction in a slow burn isn't always a lightning bolt; it's more like a sunrise, slowly illuminating what was always there. It’s the kind of 'slow burn attraction' that grows as you witness their kindness, their resilience, or how they inspire you to be better. For instance, when Jordan helped me through my lowest point, not with judgment but with unwavering faith and an invitation to explore something new, that's when I truly saw him in a different light. It's not just about what they look like, but how they make you feel – safe, seen, cherished. You start noticing little things, like the way their smile crinkles their eyes, or the habit of them always knowing exactly what you need without you saying a word. Then comes that thrilling, sometimes terrifying, transition from 'friendship to relationship.' It’s a delicate dance, often filled with unspoken questions and a fear of disrupting the beautiful bond you already share. You might find yourselves spending more and more time together, prioritizing each other, and feeling a pang of jealousy when they talk about others. The boundaries blur, and suddenly, a casual touch feels electric, a shared glance holds a thousand words. It’s about recognizing that the 'friend' you cherish has become the person you can't imagine living without, and the thought of them being with anyone else becomes unbearable. And let's talk about the 'slow burn kiss.' In many love stories, the kiss is just a kiss. But in a slow burn, that first kiss? It’s an explosion of all those years of shared history, unspoken feelings, and simmering tension. It's not just physical; it's a profound emotional release, a confirmation of everything you've felt but were too afraid to acknowledge. It's the moment when all those subtle signs, all those shared glances and comforting silences, finally culminate in something tangible and undeniable. It's the most anticipated moment because it signifies the crossing of a threshold, a declaration that all that beautiful friendship has blossomed into something even deeper. Ultimately, slow burns are incredibly rewarding because they're built on authenticity and a deep understanding of each other. They teach you patience and the value of a true partnership. By the time you reach that 'Class of '17' graduation, or even years later, you're not just lovers; you're best friends, partners in crime, and soulmates who have weathered storms together. It’s about valuing the journey, the quiet moments, and even the simple sketches, like 'Jordan's Drawing of Me (2017),' that become precious milestones in a love story that truly stands the test of time.