Pre-pandemic, she said, the pair’s relationship had revolved around activities: going out, partying, traveling. Extended lockdowns forced the pair to slow down and get to know each other in new ways. An unexpected breakthrough came from watching each other’s favorite TV shows. “We really started to understand each other more,” says Liverpool. She cites the anime series Boruto – a spinoff of her partner’s childhood favorite, Naruto – as a game changer. “As he explains the backstory of the show to me, I’ve learned more about his childhood and how his interests developed,” says the formerly anime-indifferent Liverpool. “There’s a greater level of intimacy in that than outside activities.” Glen Irvin Flores, a 45-year-old from Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, found new ways to show his wife he cared on daily walks together. The physical activity, he says, made it easier for both partners to open up about tough issues.