Building Chemistry Gradually

So in the story that I'm writing right now, the main character slowly builds a resentment for The Lancer because he develops a relationship with the girl the main character is interested in. The relationship is mutual, with both The Lancer and the girl equally being initiators. The problem is that this relationship is supposed to slowly develop instead of just being there from the start (yeah, two people can have chemistry from the start, but then there's not really anywhere to go). Does anyone have any advice?

The first question to ask is what the two bond over. From there, you can show how their interactions reflect this. (For instance, if they share a sense of humor, have them wisecrack to each other when the main character is trying to be serious.)

edited 8th Nov '11 9:27:40 PM by feotakahari

When you're writing a romance, basically have each character fulfill a need of the other. Maybe someone needs to feel taken care of and the other needs to feel needed, or one character needs to talk about their issues and the other needs to be distracted from theirs.

Basically just be gradual but deliberate in the building of their relationship. Have them be/act a little closer in every scene, incrementally. Just don't take such big steps that it's jarring and sudden. If their the type that need outside forces to arrange them getting over those first hurdles then you'll have to arrange them (just try to be subtle about it).

This. Give them a common interest, so they have something that brings them together and makes them friends. Then when a close friendship is cemented, have them start experiencing new feelings for each other.