I adore being loved and wanted by my partner.

Wanted is a different thing from loved, and it is the one people are shyer about admitting they need.

It shows up small. They saved you a seat. They looked at the door when it opened. Somebody at a gathering said your name in a sentence about next summer.

Adults are supposed to be past needing this, which is nonsense. The need does not retire; it just goes quiet and gets embarrassed about itself.

You are allowed to enjoy being chosen. You are also allowed to say so out loud, which is how the other person learns that it matters.