In the summer of 2019, shortly before their final year of high school in Stockholm, a young woman began to recognize her growing romantic feelings for her longtime best friend, Ellen. The two had shared a close bond since their first year of school, but neither had openly identified as queer, making the emerging emotions both surprising and uncertain. Raised in a liberal household where queer identities were accepted, she still assumed herself to be straight, a default expectation she struggled to reconcile with her feelings.

Her hesitation stemmed largely from fear of jeopardizing their friendship, despite sensing a possible mutual attraction. This internal conflict shifted after watching the first season of the television series "Euphoria," created by Sam Levinson and inspired by an Israeli show of the same name. Set in suburban California, the series explores the complexities of adolescence through the lens of high school students grappling with issues such as addiction, relationships, and identity.

Particularly influential was the storyline involving Rue, a recovering drug addict played by Zendaya, and Jules, a transgender girl portrayed by Hunter Schafer. Their evolving relationship struck a chord for its nuanced depiction of emotions and its portrayal of queerness as a natural and liberating part of life, rather than a source of conflict or a dramatic revelation. Unlike many narratives centered on coming-out experiences, the show depicts Rue’s relationship with Jules with a matter-of-factness that resonated deeply.

Inspired by this representation, the young woman found the courage to express her feelings to Ellen. Their first kiss marked the beginning of a relationship that has lasted six years. While initially uncertain about transitioning from friends to partners, the couple gradually built a life together, enriched by shared interests such as reading and film, and a strong emotional connection.

Though she attempted to watch subsequent seasons of "Euphoria," she found the darker tone less compelling and did not continue beyond the first season. Nevertheless, she credits the initial episodes with helping her overcome self-doubt and take a significant personal step. For her, the show's depiction of authentic and tender queer relationships was pivotal in inspiring openness and vulnerability, ultimately shaping a meaningful chapter in her life.