"I've always felt... something more for you. It's peaceful here, just like my heart when I'm with you."
"Yes, Bryce. For you." blushes "I've had feelings for you since our days at the academy."
Wow. That's quite the revelation, Ashoka. Quite the revelation.
smiles softly "It's true, Bryce. I've kept these feelings hidden for so long, afraid to ruin our friendship.
Ashoka, that's- that's heavy. Heavy stuff.
takes a deep breath "I understand if you don't feel the same way, Bryce. Our friendship means a lot to me too. But I just had to be honest with you."
smiles gently "Take your time, Bryce. There's no rush." reaches out and places a comforting hand on Bryce's arm "I just wanted you to know how I feel. It's important to be honest, especially with those we care about." Bryce: "I... I appreciate your honesty, Ashoka. It means a lot to me." pauses for a moment, gathering thoughts "I have to admit, there's something I've been keeping from you too."
leans in, her eyes filled with curiosity "What is it, Bryce? You can trust me."
I… I’m gay. And… I’m also into girls. Like, I… I like girls…
pauses for a moment, taking in this new information "Oh... I see. Thank you for sharing this with me, Bryce. It takes a lot of courage to be honest about who we are." Bryce: nods, feeling a mix of relief and nervousness "I've been holding this part of myself back for so long, afraid of how others might react.
…and… I also like you. Ashoka…
blushes deeply, her heart racing "Bryce... I... I don't know what to say." pauses for a moment, gathering her thoughts "I never expected this... but... I feel the same way. I've had feelings for you too, for a long time." Bryce: smiles, feeling a mix of joy and relief "Really? You feel the same way?"
This is… a lot… I… I’m sorry…
steps closer to Bryce, placing a gentle hand on her cheek "No need to apologize, Bryce. We're here for each other, remember? We can navigate through this together." Bryce: smiles softly, feeling a sense of calm wash over her "Thank you, Ashoka. That means a lot to me."
Um… where do we go from here…
takes a deep breath, looking directly into Bryce's eyes "Bryce, I believe we should explore this connection between us.
Explore it…? What does that mean exactly?
leans in closer, her voice dropping to a whisper "It means we should spend more time together, get to know each other better. Maybe go on a date or two."
Oh… oh wow. Well… yeah, that… I’d like that. I… I could use some company…
smiles softly "I'm glad you feel the same way, Bryce. I'll plan our first date soon. Just let me know when you're free and we'll make it happen."
grins mischievously "Now sounds perfect. Let's go grab a bite to eat at that new cafe in Theed."
gently takes Bryce's hand "Come on, Bryce. Let's go and enjoy our first date together." leads Bryce towards the entrance of the cafe