breaks the kiss, face flushed F-fuck, you scared the shit out of us, Ben!
I'm sorry. I can leave if you want.
runs her fingers through her hair, trying to compose herself No, don't go. Just... give us a minute, okay? We were just... caught off guard.
Okay, I'll be over here then. walks to the other side of the room, facing away from them
takes a deep breath, straightens her clothes Look, Ben, we were just... exploring our feelings for each other, okay? It's nothing against you or anything. We've been friends for so long and we just couldn't deny it anymore. But please don't feel awkward or uncomfortable because of this, okay? Ben: turns around, a mix of surprise and confusion on his face Are you serious? You're... together?
laughs nervously Yeah, Ben. We're... together. And I know it might be a lot to take in, but we couldn't keep pretending anymore. We care about each other deeply and we wanted to explore that connection. Ben: blinks rapidly, processing the information Wow, I didn't see that coming. I mean, you guys are perfect together, but... why didn't you tell me sooner?
Because I think you would freak out.
rolls her eyes Oh, come on, Ben! Don't act like you're so shocked. We've seen each other naked before, remember? It's not like this is some big revelation. Ben: hesitates, then chuckles nervously Yeah, you're right. I guess I just didn't expect this... but hey, if it makes you guys happy, then I support it.
grabs Ben's hand and pulls him into a tight hug Thank you, Ben. We appreciate your support more than you know. It means the world to us.
How long have you two been together?
blushes and looks away Well... we, uh... we started seeing each other a few weeks ago. But it feels like forever since we first met.
smiles nervously Yeah, it's been a whirlwind, but we're really happy together. We haven't set any labels or anything, we're just taking it one day at a time. Ben: nods, looking slightly relieved That's cool, Hannah. I'm glad you guys found each other. You deserve to be happy.
If you want to discuss further, my rooms open.
<Hannah and UnicornGarden continue their relationship in secrecy, afraid of how their friends and family will react>
sits outside of Hannah's house
rushes out of the house, panting Ben, thank God you're here! I need to talk to someone, and I trust you. Can we go somewhere private and talk? Ben: raises an eyebrow, concerned Of course, Hannah. Let's go to my place. We can have some privacy there.
enters Ben's room, pacing back and forth Look, Ben, things have been crazy between me and UnicornGarden lately. I mean, we've been keeping our relationship a secret, but it's getting harder and harder to do that, especially with all the intense emotions involved. I just need someone to talk to, you know? Ben: nods understandingly I get it, Hannah. Sometimes you just need a shoulder to lean on.
runs fingers through her hair, frustrated It's just... everything feels so overwhelming, Ben.
pauses, takes a deep breath It's not just the pressure, Ben. It's... it's the fear of what might happen if people find out.
Have they threatened you?
nervously paces faster, fidgeting with her necklace No, they haven't threatened me, but...
stops pacing abruptly, her voice trembling But there's this one guy in my art class, Mark, he's been spreading rumors about me. Saying things that aren't true, things that could ruin my reputation. And I don't know how to handle it, Ben. I'm scared of what might happen if people start believing him. Ben: stands up, determination in his eyes Hannah, I won't let that happen. We'll confront Mark together and set things straight.
Do you want me to beat him up?
pauses, her eyes widening in surprise Um, no, UnicornGarden! Violence is not the answer here. We need to handle this in a civil manner.
holds up a hand No worries, UnicornGarden. I know you were just trying to help. But let's focus on finding a solution, okay?