They often develop through self - discovery. Since they lack love in their marriage, they start looking inward and exploring their own desires and needs. For example, they might realize they have a passion for painting that they had long suppressed.
Some characters develop through hardship. The difficulties in the loveless marriage, such as constant arguments or cold silences, force them to become stronger and more resilient. They learn to cope with the situation in different ways, like focusing on their work more or finding solace in reading books, which in turn changes their personalities over time.
Typically, they start with the two characters agreeing to a marriage of convenience. For example, in many novels, it could be for financial reasons. Then, as they live together, they start to learn more about each other. And gradually, feelings begin to develop, leading to a more romantic relationship.
Typically, the marriage contract is like a starting point. It forces the characters to be in close proximity. For example, they might have to live together or attend social events as a couple. This leads to them getting to know each other better.
Often, in 'destined to love novel', the protagonists meet by chance. For example, in a crowded city or at a special event. Then, there are usually some initial conflicts or misunderstandings between them. This could be due to differences in social status, personality, or goals. As the story progresses, these differences start to fade away as they get to know each other better, and the feeling of being destined to be together becomes stronger.
Often, they start from a weak or ordinary state. For example, in 'Re:Zero', Subaru starts as a normal guy but through his repeated deaths and experiences, he gradually becomes stronger and wiser. They face challenges that force them to adapt and grow. In 'Sword Art Online', Kirito has to constantly improve his skills in the dangerous virtual world to survive and become a hero to others.
Typically, in 'forced into marriage' romance novels, there's an initial situation that forces the two main characters into marriage. It could be a family obligation, a business deal, or some sort of social pressure. Then, they start off with a lot of misunderstandings and clashes because they don't really know each other well. As time goes by, they gradually discover each other's good qualities, and feelings start to develop. For example, in 'The Hating Game', the two characters work together and are forced to interact daily due to their job situation which was initially a forced marriage - like situation, and they slowly fall for each other.
Typically, they start with the reason for the pretend marriage. It could be to deceive someone, for financial gain, or to solve a family issue. Then, as the two characters live together in this false relationship, they start to see each other in a new light. Small moments of kindness or shared experiences lead to the development of real feelings.
Often, they start with a mutual need. For example, one might need financial support and the other needs a social status boost. Then, as they spend time together, they start to notice little things about each other. They might share common interests or have similar values that they didn't expect. This gradually makes them more attracted to each other.
In modern marriage of convenience novels, often the relationship starts with a practical need. For example, one character may need financial support or help with a business deal, and the other might need something like a visa or to improve their public image. As they start living together or spending more time as a 'married' couple, they begin to notice small things about each other. Maybe they share a common interest in cooking or they both love a certain type of music. These little things gradually chip away at their initial cold or business - like attitude towards each other.
In forced marriage romance novels, usually, at the start, there is a lot of conflict. For example, in many cases, the characters may dislike each other due to the forced nature of their union. Then, as they are forced to spend time together, they start to notice small things about each other. Like in 'The Hating Game', they work in the same office after a forced work - related union, and they begin to see each other's work ethics and quirks. This gradually builds up an understanding and a strange sort of attraction.
Some arranged marriage romance novels also use the device of self - discovery. The characters, through the relationship, learn more about themselves. In 'Arranged' by Catherine Ferguson, the main character discovers her own strength and what she really wants in life as she navigates the arranged marriage. This self - discovery then further fuels the development of the relationship as she becomes more confident and able to connect with her partner on a deeper level.