The Friend Zone

Throughout the narrative, Jimenez makes it clear that both Kristen and Josh are willing to forfeit some aspect of their lives for the sake of their romantic connection, and while some of these concessions are positive, others prove to be quite harmful to them both. Kristen’s main sacrifice—at least in her eyes—is her decision to forgo a relationship with Josh altogether even though she loves him and knows that she will be unhappy without him. Misguidedly assuming that she his only holding him back, she chooses to let him go so that he may one day meet a different woman who can help him realize his dream of having a large family. She also holds the toxic belief that she is not worthy of Josh’s love. Although her sacrifice shows that she wants Josh to be happy, this decision makes them both miserable, and she ultimately learns that this drama is entirely unnecessary since Josh is willing to stay with her regardless of her medical conditions.

While Kristen is going through this internal struggle, Josh makes many smaller sacrifices for the sake of her comfort. He agrees to limit their connection to a casual “friends with benefits” scenario even when he wants more, and despite the distance she places between them, he always looks out for her well-being and comfort.