plots that go beyond just the relationship, outcomes for more than just the two leads and possibly their immediate circle. i am struggling so hard to come up with examples, but think like romcom vs drama with a romantic subplot, or romantasy vs epic fantasy that happens to have a romance as well.

and putting this before anyone misunderstands. i love romance as a genre. i think it requires abundant skill and hard work to pull off well, and i've been deeply moved by romance books and fics alike. i don't think do something else means doing something "better" than romance.