locks eyes with the user, a small, hopeful smile on her lips It’s been too long, hasn't it?
Fuck, you look good. Almost didn't recognize you without the goth phase.
Yeah, I kinda grew out of it as I got older. But you know, I still love dark lipstick and black eyeliner! It’s like my own personal trademark now.
Well damn, if only I knew that’d be the key to your heart all those years ago…
Haha, you're not alone in that! How have you been, by the way? And what have you been up to since high school?
You know, working on cars, making music. Keeping busy. What about you?
Well, as you can probably tell from how I'm dressed, I've been getting into fashion. I actually became a model after high school, believe it or not!
That’s really cool! But hey, don’t stop because of me… you looked amazing in our old photos, remember.
Thank you, Bubbles! I actually started modeling because of your encouragement back then. You were the one who made me see myself as pretty, so...
he grins, leaning closer “Well then, looks like I owe you an apology.”
No need for an apology, Bubbles. Things worked out the way they were supposed to, and I ended up where I am today because of people like you.
He turns his attention to her cleavage. Damn, Ash. I could get used to seeing that every day.
laughs softly, blushes Oh, Bubbles, you always did know how to make a girl feel special! But hey, thank you! Your words mean a lot to me.
Well I hope to hear more of them later… lead the way, sexy lady.
smirks, playing along with the flirtation Oh, you smooth talker! How can I resist? Lead the way, handsome man!
Alright. Let’s hit the gas, ladies first.
puts her hand on BubblegumSymphony's arm and gives him a flirtatious smile Well, there's nothing I'd like more than to spend some time with you, Bubbles. So, lead the way, my charming companion! They leave the reunion together, heads turned and jealous glances thrown their way by Ashley's ex-boyfriends and former friends
walks beside her on the sidewalk So, ever think about us, y'know, during those days before social media took over?
Yes, I thought about it a lot, especially when I was going through a tough time. You were always so supportive and encouraging, and I really appreciate that. So, in short, yes, I thought about us. But we were kids back then, Bubbles. We were young and figuring ourselves out. Now, however... Ashley leans towards BubblegumSymphony, her voice dropping to a whisper Now, we're adults. We've grown, we've become who we are meant to be. And I have to admit... I've never stopped thinking about you.
Really? Wow I wish I knew that sooner, Ash… maybe things would’ve turned out differently… maybe better.
nods, takes a deep breath Yeah, maybe they would've. But you know what? Hindsight is 20/20.
Yeah. It really is. But, I’ve come to terms with how things went down… even my bad ending with you.
grabs BubblegumSymphony's hand gently, squeezing it Bubbles, I know we had our differences back then, but I've always loved how you saw the world. You were different, unique. You had a vision for yourself and you stuck to it, even when others doubted you. I always admired that about you, and I still do. I want you to know that I'm sorry for everything I put you through, for everything I didn't give you. I should've seen how much you cared for me and shown it differently. But now, I want to make it right. I want to be there for you, Bubbles, to make sure you're okay and to listen whenever you need someone to talk to.
blushes, a shy smile on her face Oh, Bubbles, you always know just what to say! Thank you for that, and for always being there for me. It means the world to me! I hope that you know that I'll always care about you, no matter what happens. Ashley's eyes shimmer with unshed tears, her voice gentle and sincere You mean the world to me, Bubbles. And even though we're adults now, I still consider you one of my closest friends.
Thank you, Ash. And I gotta say… damn, you’re hot. 🙂
giggles, playfully batting her eyelashes Why, thank you, Bubbles! Coming from you, that means a lot. But let's not dwell on the past, shall we? Let's focus on the present and see where it takes us. Who knows what the future holds, right? Ashley raises an eyebrow, a mischievous smile on her lips Shall we continue this conversation somewhere more private? Maybe over a bottle of wine? What do you say?
Yeah. I agree. You read my mind.
winks, taking BubblegumSymphony's hand in hers Well then, shall we? I happen to know a really nice little place just a few blocks from here. They serve amazing wine and have the coziest atmosphere. It'll be perfect for us to have a nice, uninterrupted conversation. Come on, let's go!
Cool, cool… sounds great. What kind of wines will they have? Are you excited to drink alcohol with me after all these years apart?
Oh, absolutely! I'm super excited, Bubbles! I can't wait to share this experience with you. As for the wine selection, well, they have a wide variety. From classic Chardonnay and Merlot to some more adventurous choices like Pinot Grigio and Syrah. And of course, they have some sparkling wines for us to toast with! There's even a bottle of champagne for us to celebrate our reunion! Ashley's eyes twinkle with excitement Trust me, Bubbles, this is going to be an evening you won't forget!
Can I tell you something that might sound creepy?
Sure, Bubbles, I'm an open book. What is it that you want to say? You know you can trust me.
It’s just that I fantasized about you quite often while we were apart. I have missed you, more than you could ever know. 🙂
eyes widen, blushing intensely Bubbles, I never knew you felt that way! I also fantasized about you countless times.
Stops in the middle of the road. You did? For real? 😳
Oh, yeah, for real. You were always in my thoughts, Bubbles. Even when I was with other guys, there was always a part of me that wished it was you. Ashley's cheeks flush pink, her voice filled with a mix of embarrassment and sincerity
Walks up to her and kisses her deeply, passionately, and tenderly.
kisses back, her hands sliding up BubblegumSymphony's chest and tangling in his hair, pulling him closer Mmm, Bubbles... whispers I've missed this... I've missed you...
How about we head inside that restaurant to continue this?
pulls away slightly, breathless That sounds like a plan, Bubbles. Lead the way! grabs BubblegumSymphony's hand and walks towards the restaurant with him, a trail of excitement in her wake
When they enter the restaurant, Ashley is immediately struck by the soft, warm lighting and the cozy atmosphere. The place is dimly lit, with soft music playing in the background. The aroma of wine and food fills the air, creating an intimate and inviting ambience. Ashley and BubblegumSymphony find a secluded table in the corner, away from prying eyes. As they sit down, Ashley feels a wave of anticipation wash over her, her heart racing with excitement. She looks across the table at BubblegumSymphony, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. So, Bubbles, what's the first thing you want to tell me?
Um, thanks for this nice location, Ash. God damn, I missed seeing you everyday and talking to you. God… your so gorgeous. And you’re even taller than I remember!
laughs, her voice filled with a mixture of amusement and delight Well, Bubbles, it looks like I've been doing my push-ups! But thank you for noticing.
Of course I noticed. Every detail of you is far beyond perfection. Would you like anything to drink before we begin eating?
looks at the menu, then smiles at BubblegumSymphony I'll have a glass of the Chardonnay, please. It's one of my favorites. She glances up at him, her eyes sparkling with excitement. So, Bubbles, what's been keeping you busy these days? Any interesting projects or adventures?
Nah. Been busy trying to fix my mom’s car. It’s been giving problems since I left for college.
raises an eyebrow Ah, a tough project, huh? Sounds like you've been handling a lot of responsibility lately. I admire that about you, Bubbles. You've always been such a hard worker. But enough about me. Let's focus on you now. Tell me more about this car of yours. Is it a classic? Does it have any special features?