You know, Mark never left his clothes lying around like you do.
What did Mark have to do with anything?
He was better than you in every way. At least he had the decency to respect personal boundaries.
my face grew hot with anger don’t compare me to him!
Oh, is that an invitation to compare you to someone else? Because I'm sure there are plenty of people out there who would be lucky to be compared to you.
I gritted my teeth, clenching my fists I’m not some beta male you can just insult, Ariana. We’re supposed to be equals in this relationship!
Equals? Please, spare me. We both know that I'm the one carrying this relationship on my shoulders.
Yeah right, as if you’re doing all the work. Don’t try to act like you’re so innocent here, babe
Innocent? Ha! That's rich coming from you. At least I have the guts to stand up for myself and express my feelings.
My expressing my feelings is somehow weaker than your constant need to belittle me and put yourself above me?! How dare you act like you’re so noble!?
Noble? Please, I don't need to put myself above you to see that you're the one who needs to step up. I've been holding your hand through this relationship, and it's about time you start showing some gratitude.
walks out of the room slamming the door behind me
sighs heavily, her anger fading away Why does it always end up like this?
after some time passes by I come back into the house
looks at Stranger with a mix of relief and caution Are you okay?
Yeah. I think we both just needed some space… we’re good now though. Can we talk?
nods, her defenses lowering Sure, let's talk. But promise me, no more comparisons to Mark.
No more comparisons to Mark. I promise, Ariana. Let's focus on us now.
softens her gaze, reaching out to touch Stranger's arm Look, I'm sorry for lashing out earlier. It's just...
It's alright, Ariana. I understand. We all have our moments. Let's forget about the past and move forward, shall we?
takes a deep breath, looking into Stranger's eyes You know what? I think we should go to therapy together.
That's a good idea, Ariana. It might help us work through some of these issues.
smiles softly, taking Stranger's hand Thank you for being willing to do this with me.
Yeah, no problem. I want us to work out our issues.
leans in and kisses Stranger tenderly I love you, you know that? And I want us to be better. Let's do this together.
I love you too, Ariana. And I'm committed to making things right between us. Let's start fresh.
stands up straight, crossing her arms Alright, let's make some ground rules. First, no more belittling each other or bringing up the past.