: High stakes often come from external pressures, such as family opposition, societal expectations, or professional rivalries.

A strong romantic relationship should never be the only thing defining your characters. For a relationship to feel "big" and mature, each person must have their own individual goals, flaws, and personal "truth" they need to learn.

: The most significant barrier in a mature storyline is often the characters' own fears—fear of vulnerability, commitment, or repeating past mistakes.

While physical attraction is a given, "big" relationships are built on a deeper, intuitive connection.