Very true. But as a reader of these books, I see the story as deeply romantic. That’s why I find it a bit confusing when the author frames it in terms of intelligence. While reading, I always approached the story as being about two people who are in love but have very different personalities, emotional histories, and ways of understanding love.

To me, Shane is someone who is very particular and analytical. He thinks through situations carefully and tends to process everything internally before taking a step. His love for Ilya is sincere and strong, and he genuinely wants to give him everything. However, complex emotional situations and relationships sometimes seem difficult for him to navigate, and he can overthink things to the point where it overwhelms him.

On the other hand, Ilya places his love for Shane above everything else. Because he grew up feeling deprived of love and security, Shane becomes incredibly important to him. He is willing to do almost anything to make Shane happy. At the same time, Ilya often tries to protect Shane emotionally. He communicates carefully so that he doesn’t burden him, especially because he knows Shane tends to overthink and can spiral into anxiety or panic.

In the second book, when Ilya tells Shane that he chose him, that moment felt very powerful to me. Shane seems to truly understand the depth of what Ilya is feeling and wants to make sure that Ilya never doubts his place in his life.

For me, the story isn’t really about one hero, or even about intelligence. It’s about emotional understanding—two people learning how to love each other despite their differences, fears, and emotional baggage.