The Pairing (The Proposition, #3)

Theo Flowerday is one of the novel’s two protagonists and narrators. They have a tall build, “orange-blond” hair (178), a “wide mouth” (18), and a “slightly oversized nose” (18). As Theo embraces their nonbinary identity and lets go of feminine beauty standards, they learn to love their strong, androgynous features. McQuiston characterizes Theo as a determined, skillful, and hardworking individual as demonstrated by the freelance business they build on their own and their refusal to rely on their family’s reputation or wealth. However, as those closest to Theo point out, their misconception that they must succeed on their own sometimes leads them to “get in [their] own way” (181) with risk-averse and self-sabotaging behaviors. Over the course of the culinary tour, the round, dynamic character learns to be less cautious and to place more trust in themselves. Theo struggles with insecurities but eventually emerges as a confident and daring protagonist.

Theo’s character arc makes key contributions to the romantic comedy’s plot, themes, and genre. The decisions that Theo makes in The Pursuit of Pleasure, such as embarking on a decadent culinary tour and agreeing to the hookup competition, drive much of the action.