Excellent!!! Did he seem to stand a little taller upon hearing the compliments? I know I do whenever my W says anything complimentary at all.

Great job!

So, he gave you a fantastic future opportunity w/ the cupcake. What's his favorite treat? Bring it next time you know you'll see him. Are you sure gifts aren't one of his LLs?

Opportunity idea for physical touch. If he has a new shirt on (collared), you can ooh at his new shirt and touch the shoulder/neck area on the shirt as you admire it. He'll like it, especially paired w/ a compliment.

Keep at it.

Me: 34 W:33
T: 10 M: 6
S: 6 D: 5
BD: 5/14
Still together(ish)
Not giving up: 7/14
D talk has slowed, a lot.
Gradually working on things together. Still separate bedrooms.
Slow and Steady wins the race.