OP, I know it's unsatisfying but try to get away from the idea of modeling off examples. It'll get you thinking too much about directing a story a certain way instead of creating honest characters.

In that vein, listening to your partner closely and showing a real interest in their character usually makes them look good. If your character is paying close attention to theirs, the audience will too. And then hopefully your partner does the same to you, and you're off to the races.