This quote beautifully captures the complex and often conflicting emotions that come with deep intimacy and love. Stella's experiences with Holden and Gavin reveal the powerful influence of connection on self-perception and emotional well-being. Being with them ignites desire within her, emphasizing the passion and longing that can make one feel alive and cherished. Conversely, the impatience she feels in their absence highlights how relationships can also bring vulnerability and a sense of incompleteness when they are not with us. Her feelings of beauty and desirability stem from genuine affection and affirmation, contrasting with societal standards that often equate worth with external beauty or superficial regimens. This narrative reminds us that true fulfillment and understanding of femininity transcend superficial attributes—it's rooted in feeling valued, loved, and connected. Stella’s realization—that there is more to being a woman than beauty routines and biological processes—step beyond stereotypical bounds, advocating for a more holistic and authentic appreciation of womanhood. The emotional depth in her experience underscores the importance of intimacy in fostering genuine self-esteem and recognizing intrinsic worth. It also subtly challenges societal expectations by suggesting that emotional and relational fulfillment hold more significance than external complexities. Overall, this passage speaks to the transformative power of love and intimacy, encouraging genuine connection and self-awareness as vital components of a woman’s identity.