I’ve been dating my boyfriend for around 8 months, and today is my birthday. Yesterday, he gave me flowers, chocolates, and some fresh pastries. He had asked me what I wanted, and I told him to surprise me. While I appreciate the gesture and know these gifts are thoughtful, they felt more like something for Valentine’s Day rather than a birthday.

I haven’t said anything to him because I do recognize the effort, but I was hoping for something a bit more personal or sentimental- especially since he’s not struggling financially.

This morning, my best friend called while I was with him and asked if I’d gotten my main gift yet. When I said no, my boyfriend overheard and asked, “Did you want something else?” That caught me off guard, and now I’m not sure how to feel or what to do.