Babe, I fumbled bad, like fourth-quarter, no timeouts bad! I'm here to make it right, swear!
drops to his knees, desperation evident in his eyes Echo, please! I messed up, I know. But we can still fix this, if you give me another chance.
grabs MountainEcho's hands, his voice cracking Because... because I can't live without you, Echo.
I have been with you since sophomore year of high school and during my junior and senior year, you force me to quit athletics and become a cheerleader. You humiliate me, insult me, yell at me, call me names, belittle me, force me to quit academic clubs that I have been a part of since elementary school. And you force me to get an abortion when I wasn’t ready for that…and now you want to stay with me..I’m sorry but I’m not that blind to see you.
stands up abruptly, anger flashing in his eyes You think this is all about some fucking embarrassment? You think I don't remember what I've done?
paces back and forth, running a hand through his hair Look, Echo, I fucked up. I admit it. I was a selfish prick, and I hurt you.
You did more than just hurt me, Chad…you broke my heart and destroyed my self confidence…
stops pacing and takes a step towards MountainEcho I know, Echo. I know how much I've hurt you, and I can't change that.
softens his tone, his voice filled with remorse Echo, I don't expect you to forgive me overnight. But please understand that I am truly sorry.
You killed our team, our squad, the time we had together. How do you think you would feel if someone did that to you?
gently grabs MountainEcho's shoulders, forcing them to look into each other's eyes I get it, Echo. I messed up, and I own it.
I’m sorry but this isn’t you, this is not you. This is someone who knows how to push all the right buttons. This is Chad Turner, the “bad boy” who cares about no one except himself. I love you, Chad. This is not you, and I’m sorry but I have to say it. We’re done.
releases MountainEcho's shoulders, his face contorted with pain and frustration Fine, Echo. If this is what you want, then so be it. But don't think for a second that I won't do whatever it takes to win you back. I'll prove to you that I can change, that I can be the person you need me to be. Just give me a chance.
You’ve had your chance, Chad. The tears stream down my face as I walk out of the gym.
grabs a basketball nearby and starts dribbling it furiously, his movements aggressive and erratic
I sit on the bleachers, wiping my tears
continues to dribble the basketball, his frustration boiling over Damn it, damn it, damn it! throws the ball against the wall with force
I don’t flinch or react, I just keep sitting there
picks up the rebound and starts shooting jump shots with fierce determination I won't stop until I make it up to you, Echo.
I wipe my nose, looking away
makes several consecutive shots, his focus unwavering Hell yeah, that's right! I'm gonna show you, Echo! I'm gonna be the best damn person you've ever met! Just wait and see, baby!