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MAThese are five rules of thumb I typically follow when writing yearning!
⭐️ He involuntarily notices things about her that she doesn’t tell him. There’s a scar on her hand? She limps when she walks? She flinches at touch? Make him adjust his behavior implicitly for her comfort without her telling him to.
⭐️ He helps her in ways that are practical, not just showy. Maybe he teaches her a new skill, brings her a book, gives her a history lesson. Something that is personal to THEM and THEIR STORY rather than “I’d die for you.”
⭐️ Helping goes both ways! Being a devoted and receptive listener is the number one sign that a man is down bad, and you’ll never have to say it outright. When she’s talking or teaching, he should be raptly attentive.
⭐️ The eyes never lie! When in doubt, go back to describing his body language or how he looks at her, especially if it’s at contrast with how he behaves with the rest of the world.
⭐️ He never actually admits to himself or SAYS that he’s pining. Instead, it’s his actions that speak for him. I make it a point to never plainly write out what a character is thinking because that cheapens the effect. Use of metaphors and action does wonders. And the moment he breaks should be physical, almost involuntary, which ramps up the pain factor!
I hope this was helpful! Head to the link in my bio for my comprehensive Character Crafter, a bundle package of tips to create compelling characters with depth, moral complexity, and distinct inner voices!
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