Note: I am not a special SB. I'm 5'5, slightly larger, linebacker-esque build, but I like to this my personality is my rizz.

Consider this scenario (as an SD):

You've been in a SR for over a year and a half. Your SB is navigating a turbulent period in her life, facing a confluence of personal struggles: family crises, health concerns, and the demanding pursuit of her career aspirations alongside the pressures of her regular job.

As her SD, you've been a consistent source of emotional support, a steady presence during these challenging times. While your arrangement doesn't involve covering her rent, you provide a decent PPM that acknowledges the value of your connection, and you prioritize creating shared experiences through monthly trips to exciting destinations.

Last Christmas, you orchestrated a memorable getaway to NYC, treating her and her best friends to a festive experience, which included dedicated time spent together as a couple (not a foursome, sorry). This year, you envisioned recreating that magic, carefully booking a week-long stay in NYC. However, less than a month before the scheduled departure, a sudden and unavoidable shift in her work schedule throws a wrench into the plans, rendering the trip impossible.

Disappointment weighs heavily on you. The carefully laid plans, the anticipation of shared moments—all seemingly vanished.

You:

A) React with resentment and withhold her PPM for the following month.

B) react negatively to her prioritizing her professional obligations over your desires, creating a rift in your connection.

C) Attempt to salvage the situation, perhaps by suggesting a condensed weekend trip to NYC, salvaging at least a portion of the planned experience.

D) Interpret this change of plans as a personal betrayal, questioning her commitment to the relationship.

(Spoiler: My SD wisely chose C.)

I was crushed by the prospect of missing our annual Christmas trip to NYC. My work had become an all-consuming force, demanding 60 hour weeks, leaving me exhausted but with a significantly larger paycheck from the abundant overtime. I reluctantly canceled my separate girls' trip, and he, equally disappointed, canceled the hotel reservation. 2 weeks ago, he sent a text asking if I was free for a weekend getaway.

He’d secretly been working his magic, pulling strings and navigating availability to secure a suite in the city. We escaped to NYC for a whirlwind weekend, a much-needed respite from our demanding lives. He meticulously ensured we experienced everything I had hoped for, making every moment count.

The entire weekend was filled with joy and laughter. I felt cherished and appreciated. Guys. My SD had me cheesing the WHOLE weekend. I loved every second.

TLDR: I'm still radiating happiness from my surprise, last-minute NYC trip. It was a powerful reminder of how special I am to him, and these kinds of gestures, built on understanding and flexibility, are what define a truly fulfilling SR for me.