Emma decided it was time to have a heart-to-heart conversation with Asher. She invited him to dinner at her apartment, hoping a quiet, intimate setting would help him open up. Asher arrived, looking tired but loving, and Emma's heart melted a little. She knew he was stressed, but she needed him to understand her perspective.
Over a home-cooked meal, Emma broached the subject that had been on her mind. "Asher, I feel like we're growing apart. You're always busy, and I feel like I'm not a priority to you."
Asher set his fork down, his expression serious. "Emma, you're my priority. I love you. But my business is going through a critical phase right now. I promise it's temporary."
Emma looked at him, searching for reassurance. "I understand that, but I need to feel like I'm important to you. Can we find a way to balance your work and our relationship?"
Asher reached out, taking her hand. "Of course, we can. I promise to do better. You're right; I've been neglecting you, and that's not acceptable."
In that moment, Emma felt a sense of relief wash over her. Maybe, just maybe, their relationship could withstand the pressures of Asher's world. But as they hugged, Emma couldn't shake the feeling that there were still challenges ahead, ones that would test their love in ways she couldn't imagine.