My current WIP is moving along slowly, but it's moving. As you know, because I've reiterated it an over-the-top amount of times, I don't write genre romances. I write love stories heavy on the romance.
One of the differences I perceive between those two identifiers is this: So many genre romances are built on conflicts, conflicts, conflicts. So many of those conflicts are based on poor communication, silly decisions, and overall denials of how two people genuinely feel about each other - hence: game playing. I hate emotional game-playing in real life and between characters in stories.
The natural occurring conflicts in relationships usually involve misunderstandings or unintended mistakes. People who want to be in a relationship usually also want to respect the other person and keep certain kinds of joking or sarcasm to a minimum until it's understood what is acceptable or at least tolerable. Learning about someone usually takes some time and willingness to be perceptive and patient. Lasting love isn't built in a day. It's the same with friendship.
The protagonist in this story has run away from himself. He's sick of what he's been and wants to change, but he really doesn't have quite enough incentive - or even the know-how - to change his nearly lifelong lifestyle. His best friend from their early school years - both of them successful adults in their individual professions - became a Christian several years ago. That didn't sit well with the protagonist, but his best friend only mentioned it that one time. Until . . .
And so the story goes . . .
A first-person male POV character study of himself . . .
Father, you know I know apart from you, I can do nothing. I thank you for every good thing in my life. Only you, Lord. Thank you for stories, words, characters, inspiration. Only you. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.