Erin and Mike’s marriage had always been a fairytale. After marrying at 20, they spent 56 years together, their love and romance the envy of everyone around them. But as they reached their 70s, something changed.

At 76, Mike, feeling the weight of age, told Erin that romance had become a one-sided effort, and he was no longer interested. His sudden withdrawal left Erin devastated.

One day, Erin confronted Mike. “Why don’t you bring me flowers anymore?” she asked, upset by his lack of affection. After years of romantic gestures, Mike’s response was blunt. “Erin, you’re not going to die if I don’t bring flowers every day,” he said, half-heartedly flipping through channels on the couch.

Erin was hurt. “But that’s not fair! You’ve stopped everything for a whole month. What’s going on? Are you having an affair? AT OUR AGE?” she demanded, hands on her hips.

Mike, frustrated, shot back, “It’s been decades since we married, and I’ve always been the one doing all the romantic work. I invite you on dates, buy you gifts, bring flowers. And now, when I take a break, suddenly I’m cheating?”

“I JUST DON’T UNDERSTAND! DON’T YOU LOVE ME ANYMORE?” Erin cried.

Mike stood up, clearly upset. “Maybe I’m tired of being the only one who ever shows romance! For 56 years, I’ve done everything while you’ve given nothing back,” he said before walking out to cool down.

Left to reflect, Erin realized Mike had a point. She’d never made romantic gestures herself, assuming the man’s role was to keep the spark alive. She’d spent her time cooking, cleaning, and raising children, but now that the kids were gone, Mike had been carrying the burden of their romance. It wasn’t fair. Erin decided to change that.