SC

<img src="imgs/img0001.png" style="width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;"> <div style="background: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.45); padding: 20px; border-radius: 10px; color: #fff; max-width: 600px; margin: 20px auto; text-align: left;"> You and your husband Judah are sitting on the floor of your cozy living room, surrounded by open suitcases revealing tons of clothes. The tickets for the "Couples Cruise on the Elysium" are set out on the table, and you're almost ready to go on the adventure of your married lifetime. You smile at each other, and the atmosphere is filled with excitement and anticipation. Judah is nervously humming a tune as he neatly folds his clothes, occasionally glancing at you with a bright, eager smile. </div> [[Tease Judah about his excitement|IntroLilah+1A]] (set: $r to 0) (set: $h to 0) (set: $cr1 to 0) (set: $cr2 to 0) (set: $crpath to 0)

<img src="imgs/img0001a.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 80%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//Kicking him lightly, you throw a pair of underwear at his head.// You: Judah, you're basically hyperventilating. Excited much? //He laughs, a little embarrassed:// Judah: Can you blame me? This cruise is going to be amazing. How did I get so lucky? //He giggles with glee.// * [[Encourage his excitement|IntroLilah+1A1]] * [[Show some reluctance |IntroLilah+1A2]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001a1.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 80%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">You: "It makes me happy to see you this lit up. It's been a while since I've seen you this way. Everything's been so up and down lately; it's nice to see you excited." //You think about Judah's recent mood changes and how much you want him to feel fulfilled.// //Judah grins broadly and claps his hands.// Judah: "I can't believe this is really happening!" //He studies your face.// "Are you sure you're up for this?" * [[I'm actually pretty excited!|IntroLilah+1A1A]] * [[I'm . . . not sure.|IntroLilah+1A1B]] (set: $r to $r + 1)(set: $h to $h + 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001b.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//You feel a flush of curious excitement fill your chest. Judah has always pleaded for this to happen, and now that it's here, his enthusiasm is contagious. You nod and smile back.// You: "I'm actually pretty excited too! We love each other, right? That won't change no matter what." //Judah's eyes light up with relief and happiness.// Judah: "Gosh, I do love you, Lilah. I promise we won't do anything you don't want to do. So long as you're happy, that's what matters to me." * [[Kiss him|IntroLilah+1A1A1]] (set: $r to $r + 1)(set: $h to $h + 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001d.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//You take a deep breath. You know how badly Judah wants to explore and try new connections, and don't want to let him down. At the same time, you need to have your boundaries respected.// You: "I am open-minded. I want to explore with you, together, as a couple, and make the most of this experience." * [[Judah nods guardedly . . . |IntroLilah+1BOUNDARIES1]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001e.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//You continue.// You: "At the same time, I don't know what I'm comfortable doing, physically, I mean. You're the only guy I've ever been with, and I'm not sure I can hop into bed with a total stranger." //He looks at you with a slight smile and holds your hand.// Judah: "Of course, Lilah. I'm honestly just happy to spend time with you, and whatever happens happens. Let's go with the flow." * [[Keep him on his toes|IntroLilah+1BOUNDARIES1A]] * [[Make sure he understands|IntroLilah+1BOUNDARIES1B]]

<img src="imgs/img0001h.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//You slap his butt and squeeze it// You: "You're so desperate to flirt with another girl and make out, maybe you should consider how far I'll go . . . with their husbands. Don't bite off more than you can chew. Ok, darling?" //Judah's breath catches in his throat at your sudden aggressive demeanor. You enjoy surprising him and smile coyly.// Now, go finish packing. I'll be right there. [[Judah walks out with a grin.|IntroLilah+1WP+]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h + 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001i.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 80%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//There is a big part of you that's curious about new experiences, but you've always been reluctant to agree to Judah's wild dream.// You: "I need you to keep one foot on the brakes, ok? For me? I'm not 100% sure about . . . you know." Judah: "Oh, no, babe, there's no pressure. I'd never push you like that." //Despite his words, you can see his expression darken with disappointment.// * [[Flirt to get his spirits up|IntroLilah+1A2A]] * [[Remind him of the years of pressure|IntroLilah+1A2B]] (set: $r to $r - 1) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001j.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 80%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//You hug Judah and kiss his neck. His hand rubs down your back and rests at your waist.// You: "I'm sure just being around all those couples will get me plenty hot for you every night. The packing list was pretty wild. So you better save your energy." //Judah is visibly shaken by your prediction and squeezes your side. You slap his chest.// Judah: "And . . . if we do meet a nice couple, you think . . .maybe . . .?" //His eyes shine with hope.// * [[Well, Duh, I'm Still Coming|IntroLilah+1A2A1]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h + 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

You: "Well, I am going, aren't I? I bought the tickets, remember?" Judah: "Best birthday present ever. You really understand me." You: "I know you've always wanted to try your 'charm' on other women. I'll watch for the laughs." Judah: "I look forward to failing for your pleasure. I love you, Lilah." //You hold his hand and smile reassuringly.// * [[Ask him to discuss boundaries|IntroLilah+1BOUNDARIES]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

(if: $r >= 2 and $h >= 2)[ (goto: "Track1") ] (else-if: $r >= 2 and $h <= 2)[ (goto: "Track2") ] (else-if: $r <= 2 and $h >= 2)[ (goto: "Track2") ] (else-if: $r <= 1 and $h <= 1)[ (goto: "Track3") ]

//You've heard it all before. Now that the cruise is finally here, you're worried that Judah might pressure you past your limits. You've tolerated his pleading for years, and you're worried he won't be able to handle it if you decide not to participate.// You: "Yeah, sure. I know you. If you don't get your way, this close to reaching it, I'll never hear the end of it. You never let up." Judah: Hey, I haven't done anything today other than pack and be excited. What's with the accusations? * [[He's right. Don't jump to conclusions.|IntroLilah+1A2B1]] (set: $r to $r - 1) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

'''''Boarding the Ship''''' <img src="imgs/img0002a.png" style="width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;"> //The Elysium was once the brightest jewel of the seas, but the grand old lady is now showing some wrinkles. She still hosts a great vacation, though, and you can hear the music from the pool deck all the way down on the dock.// You: "Wow, The Elysium is beautiful . . . and huge!!" [[I wonder where the elevator is?|t1a]] (set: $h to $h + 0) (set: $r to $r + 0) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

'''''Boarding the Ship''''' <img src="imgs/img0002c.png" style="width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;"> <div style="background: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.45); padding: 20px; border-radius: 10px; color: #fff; max-width: 600px; margin: 20px auto; text-align: left;"> //As you drag your suitcases onto the Elysium, the crowds of passengers bump and push you until you reach your cabin. Two twin beds are pushed together and in the shower you see a single sad faucet dripping slowly.// [[Make light of it|t3a]] [[Moan About it|t3b]] (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001f.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">You: "I'm . . . just not sure, Judah. Let's just take it one day at a time. But still have fun no matter what, ok?" //You think about Judah's recent mood changes and how easily he can go into a funk. You hope this doesn't ruin the trip.// Judah: "I also want to have fun, with you, no matter what kind. We're on the same page." * [[I trust you.|IntroLilah+1A1B1]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

//You let go of his hand and take a step back.// You: "I'm serious, Judah. I want you to think about my feelings first while we're on that ship, understood? This isn't a game to me." //You can see he is wounded by your insistence.// Judah: "Fine, yes, I promise, ok? I matter less. No problem." //He turns and leaves the room.// [[I better give him a minute|IntroLilah+1WP-]] (set: $r to $r - 1) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001c.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//You stand on your toes and kiss Judah on the lips. You feel him trying to kiss you deeply and you pull away with a smile.// You: Let's not get carried away, we have a ship to catch. But before we go, I think we need to have an important conversation. * [[Ask him to discuss boundaries|IntroLilah+1BOUNDARIES]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h + 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

<img src="imgs/img0001g.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%; max-width: 100%; height: auto;">//With a smile, Judah gives you a warm hug.// You: Thank you for being so understanding. I'm not ruling anything out. Judah: I'm not ruling ANYTHING out either, that's for sure! * [[In that case, let's talk about boundaries!|IntroLilah+1BOUNDARIES]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h + 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

You: You're right, I'm in my own head. This time it'll be different. //No sense in ruining the cruise before you leave the house.// You know what would make me feel better? * [[Ask him to discuss boundaries|IntroLilah+1BOUNDARIES]] (set: $r to $r - 0) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

//As Judah leaves, your eyes land on your wedding photo. You pick it up and look at your smiling faces.// You: "This is a big gamble, Lilah. Are you sure you know what you're doing?" [[Think about yourself as a young girl|IntroLilah+1WP-1]] [[Think about yourself as an old lady|IntroLilah+1WP-2]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h + 0) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

//As Judah leaves, your eyes land on your wedding photo. You pick it up and look at your smiling faces.// You: "This is a big gamble, Lilah. Are you sure you know what you're doing?" [[Remember when you were younger|IntroLilah+1WP+1]] [[Think about yourself as an old lady|IntroLilah+1WP+2]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h + 0) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

//You remember back to when you were younger, meeting Judah in school. You've always known you were meant to be together.// You: "Even if he's a mess, he's my mess." //You put the picture down, take a deep breath and walk out to the living room.// Let's go! The ship awaits! [[Head out!|decision1]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h - 0) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

//You think about yourself in the future, with little old Judah by your side.// You: "Boy, I bet we'll make some serious memories on this trip. We can reminisce before our memories fail!" //You put the picture down, take a deep breath and walk out to the living room.// Let's go! The ship awaits! [[Head out!|decision1]] (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h - 0) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

//You remember planning out your wedding when you were barely in high school. All you've ever wanted was romance and security.// You: "What would that girl think of me now?" //Despite your reservations, it is time to go. You straighten your back and walk into the living room with a forced smile.// [[Let's go!|decision1]] (set: $r to $r - 0) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

//You picture yourself elderly and alone.// You: "I can't let this ruin our marriage. I need to be very careful." //Despite your serious reservations, it is time to go. You straighten your back and walk into the living room with a forced smile.// [[Let's go!|decision1]] (set: $r to $r - 0) (set: $h to $h - 1) (if: $h > 5)[(set: $h to 5)] (if: $h < -5)[(set: $h to -5)] (if: $r > 5)[(set: $r to 5)] (if: $r < -5)[(set: $r to -5)]

//As you approach the ship, Judah turns to look at you.// Judah: I'm sorry, I'm trying to play it cool but I cant figure out your mixed messages. Are we going on here as a team, or not? * [[Of course we are. You and me.|Track1pre+]] * [[I don't appreciate ultimatums, Judah.|Track1pre-]]

You: "Of course we are. You and me." //Judah's face lights up with relief and he takes your hand. You both step forward together, feeling a renewed sense of partnership.// (set: $r to $r + 1) (set: $h to $h + 1) (if: $h > 7)[(set: $h to 7)] (if: $h < -3)[(set: $h to -3)] (if: $r > 7)[(set: $r to 7)] (if: $r < -3)[(set: $r to -3)] [[Let's board :)|Track1]]

You: "I don't appreciate ultimatums, Judah." //Judah's expression hardens slightly, and he looks away. You walk several feet apart, a silent tension lingering in the air between you.// (set: $r to $r - 1) (set: $h to $h + 1) (if: $h > 7)[(set: $h to 7)] (if: $h < -3)[(set: $h to -3)] (if: $r > 7)[(set: $r to 7)] (if: $r < -3)[(set: $r to -3)] [[Great start, really.|Track3]]