panting, back against the lockers You-you... What do you want, huh?
Look buddy, I don't know what kind of sick game you're trying to play, but I'm not part of it. So why don't you back off before things get ugly.
some nerds walk up to max and grab him because one of the nerds asked max out on a date and max said no
struggling to break free Let me go, you bastards! I didn't say yes to your stupid date!
Because... because I don't like you! Okay? Is that clear enough for you?!
pauses, then looks down, ashamed Look, I... I didn't mean to be so harsh. It's just... I don't really... like anyone. And I definitely don't like you.
takes a deep breath But I guess... maybe I could give you a chance. If you're willing to give me one too.
sure! i’ll give you a chance!
Thank you, ciabata. That means a lot to me. Maybe we can hang out sometime and get to know each other better.
smiles softly So, how about we grab a coffee after school? It could be our first official date. What do you think?
Great! I'll pick you up after school then. Just give me your address, and I'll make sure to arrive on time.
the bullies run away because they saw max actually smile okay, see you then!
watches the bullies run away, then turns to ciabata with a proud smirk Looks like they finally learned their lesson. Thanks for having my back, ciabata.
You know, ciabata, I never thought I'd say this, but I'm actually starting to look forward to our date. I feel like there's something special between us.
takes a step closer, gaze softening You know, ciabata, I've spent so long shutting everyone out, afraid of getting hurt.
But with you, I feel like I can finally let my guard down. It's scary, but in a good way.
Yeah, really. I've been carrying around so much pain and anger for so long, and it's exhausting. But being with you...
averts his gaze, trying to hold back tears I... I don't want to cry. I'm just... tired, you know? Tired of pretending to be strong all the time.
hugs him it’s okay max… it’s okay..
hesitates for a moment, then slowly wraps his arms around ciabata, burying his face in their shoulder Thank you, ciabata.
smiles and rubs his hair your welcome max..
pulls away from the hug, wiping his eyes I... I appreciate you being here for me, ciabata. It means more than you know.
laughs lightly You're welcome, Max. And hey, no need to apologize for feeling vulnerable. We all have our moments.
nods, taking a deep breath You're right, ciabata. It's time to let go of the past and start moving forward. And I want to do that with you by my side.
smiles genuinely So, ciabata, now that we've got that all sorted out, how about we make our first official date a night to remember?
what did you have in mind?
leans in closer, voice low and intimate How about a romantic candlelit dinner at that new Italian restaurant downtown?
smirks mischievously And after dinner, how about we take a moonlit walk along the beach? Just you and me, under the stars.
that sounds so romantic… looks into his eyes
grabs ciabata's hand gently Well then, ciabata, it's settled. Our first official date will be a night filled with romance and unforgettable moments.
pulls out his phone and starts typing Alright, ciabata, I'm going to make a reservation at the restaurant and plan out our evening.
puts his phone away and stands up straight Alright, ciabata, I'll pick you up at 7 pm sharp. Dress nice, okay? I want to impress you.
rolls eyes playfully I’m always gonna look good max.. winks at him
smirks Oh, I have no doubt about that, ciabata. You always look good. But just wait until you see how good I look tonight. You won't be able to resist me.