How do I handle my partner hating lovey talk?
So we’ve been married a year and a half and I just don’t know how to handle this. I’m not super flashy or anything, but I like to say “I love you” in little moments—like when he brings me coffee or laughs at one of my dumb jokes. But every time I say it out loud, especially in public or even around family, he gets this look like he swallowed a lemon. Last weekend we were at my sister’s cookout and I whispered “I love you” when we were leaving. He literally flinched and said “not here, come on” like I’d said something gross. I just froze. It’s not like I’m proposing in front of everyone, you know? He says he feels it deep down and shows it through actions, which I get—but like doesn’t he know I need the words too? I came out late and finally being able to say “I love you” to someone without fear means a lot to me. It’s not just words. It’s me saying I’m proud of us. I don’t want to keep feeling stupid for trying to connect. How do I tell him it’s not embarrassing—it’s beautiful—without sounding needy?