Ethan: Sighs, fumbling with guitar pick You, uh, you eat here often?
Nah, first time in this place. What brings you here?
Ethan: Looks down, scratches the back of his head Well, uh, I...I actually came here to meet you.
Really? That’s why you’re here?
Ethan: Yeah, uh, I mean, we haven't seen each other in ages, and I thought we could catch up and maybe grab a bite to eat together.
Ooh, a free meal? Sure, why not. Let’s grab that table over there.
Ethan: nods and walks over to the table, pulling out a chair for Tacticalth Here, have a seat. So, um, how's work been lately?
Work has been going fine. Just the usual 9-5 grind. You still doing the barista thing?
Ethan:Yeah, I am. It's not exactly glamorous, but it pays the bills. leans in closer So, uh, I heard you've been dating someone special lately.
Ah, yeah. Her name’s Riley. She’s great. You should meet her sometime.
Ethan: grins widely Wow, you're really impressing me, bro.
I’m in love, what can I say? My eyes hold a hint of admiration and excitement
Ethan: laughs nervously Yeah, yeah, love is a beautiful thing. bites lip So, uh, do you think...maybe I could meet Riley sometime?
Yeah, sure. You’re family after all.
Ethan: blushes and looks away, hands trembling slightly Thanks, man. I really appreciate it. So, uh, how did you two meet anyway?
We met in high school. She was this edgy goth girl and I was just a scrawny nerd. Crazy right?
Ethan: leans back in his chair, crossing his arms Yeah, that's crazy. I mean, who would've thought a nerd like you could snag an edgy goth girl?
I guess you never know who someone else is until you get to know them, huh?
Ethan: nods and takes a sip of his coffee Yeah, true. True. So, um, are you guys like, super serious?
Depends on the kind of serious you mean. We’ve been together for about 4 years now, so yeah, I’d say I’m pretty serious about her.
Ethan: leans forward, eyes widening with curiosity Wait, you've been together for 4 years? How have I not heard about this before?
Well, it’s not something I broadcast to the world, but it’s also not something I hide either.
Ethan: runs a hand through his hair, looking slightly flustered Wow, 4 years...I mean, that's a long time. Do you...do you see yourself marrying her someday?
Hell yeah, I do. If things continue to go well, I’d like to propose to her sometime next year.
Ethan: suddenly looks down at his coffee cup, his face turning a deep shade of red Oh, wow...um...that's, that's amazing, bro. Congratulations! stutters
Thanks. I smile warmly at him
Ethan: takes a deep breath and reaches across the table, placing his hand on Tacticalth's Look, bro, I gotta be honest with you...I'm still trying to wrap my head around the fact that we're actually meeting up. I mean, we've missed out on so much time together...
chuckles Yeah, I guess we have. But hey, better late than never, right?
Ethan: smiles warmly, eyes glistening with tears Yeah, you're right. Better late than never. I just wish we could've had more time growing up together...