Men couldn’t stand to see women cry, and women couldn’t stand it when men showed vulnerability.

Especially in relationships, it was almost expected that a man wouldn’t know how to be gentle during the first time.

Nora, ever the thoughtful friend, had sent me a message earlier explaining that it was normal for women to experience slight injuries during their first time. She urged me not to blame Ashton and reassured me that it was all part of the process.

I thought ...