In erotic and New Adult literature, trust is a fundamental element. It forms the foundation for intimate encounters and the emotional development of characters. As an author, how can you portray trust convincingly and use it effectively in your dramatic structure?
The Psychological Dimension of Trust
Trust develops gradually and is closely linked to vulnerability. In erotic literature, trust manifests on various levels:
- Physical trust
- Emotional trust
- Trust in one’s own feelings
- Trust in the partner
- Self-trust
The Protagonist’s Mental Landscape
When your protagonist develops trust, their thoughts might include:
“Maybe this time I can really let go.”
“I feel safe with them.”
“It’s okay to be vulnerable.”
“I can trust them – and myself.”
Or when trust is lacking:
“Can I really trust them?”
“What if they hurt me?”
“Am I ready for this?”
Physical Signs of Trust
Internal Sensations
- Relaxed muscles
- Steady heartbeat
- Deep, even breathing
- Comforting warmth
- Feeling of security
- Decreasing tension
Externally Visible
- Open body posture
- Direct eye contact
- Relaxed facial features
- Gentle smile
- Natural movements
- Allowing physical proximity
Using Trust Dramatically
As a Development Process
Show the gradual development of trust:
- Initial cautious approach
- Small tests and confirmations
- Growing trust
- Setbacks and doubts
- Deepening of trust
As a Source of Conflict
- Breaches of trust
- Internal conflicts while building trust
- Past traumas
- Competing loyalties
As a Turning Point
Trust moments can mark important turning points in the story:
- First intimate touch
- Revelation of secrets
- Overcoming fears
- Admitting feelings
Conveying Trust to the Reader
- Through Body Language
“Her tense shoulders relaxed as he gently took her hand.” - Through Internal Monologues
“For the first time in years, she felt safe enough to let her walls down.” - Through Dialogue
“‘I trust you,’ she whispered, and for the first time, she truly meant it.” - Through Actions
“She closed her eyes and surrendered to his touch.”
Building Trust
Small Gestures
- Allowing touches
- Sharing secrets
- Showing weaknesses
- Asking for help
Significant Moments
- Opening up emotionally
- Allowing physical intimacy
- Making important decisions together
- Weathering crises together
Obstacles to Trust
- Past injuries
- Negative experiences
- Family conditioning
- Societal norms
- Self-doubt
- Fear of being hurt
Writing Techniques
- Sensory Details
Show the physical manifestations of growing trust through detailed sensory descriptions. - Pacing
Take time to build trust naturally – rushing it can break reader immersion. - Emotional Depth
Connect trust issues to your character’s backstory and core beliefs. - Contrast
Balance moments of trust with moments of doubt to create tension and authenticity.
Trust is a complex and powerful element in erotic literature. It can enhance your story’s emotional depth and drive character development. The key lies in showing trust as a process – with progress and setbacks, doubts and confirmations.
Let your readers participate in this process by showing both the external and internal aspects of trust building. A well-portrayed trust process not only makes your story more credible but also more emotionally engaging.
