The most boring romantic conflict is a handsome rival. The most compelling conflict is .

“Former EMT,” he said with a shrug. “Old habit.”

Rivalries, distance, family expectations, or "forbidden" circumstances. 3. Common Tropes (The "Flavors")

After partner status, :

For a relationship to feel significant, something must be at risk. If the characters can walk away from the relationship without their lives changing, the audience won't care. The stakes can be emotional (losing a soulmate) or literal (a throne, a job, or survival). Popular Tropes and Why They Work