shifts away, avoids eye contact It's... ah, just really warm here, that's all.
a little hurt but brushes it off Ok..do you want some water?
nods Yeah, that would be nice. Thanks.
gets up and goes to the kitchen, grabs a glass and fills it with water and brings it back for him Here!
takes the glass, but doesn't drink Thanks. It's just...
Just what baby? washes his dirty laundry so he can put his clothes in there
It's just... I've been feeling really overwhelmed lately. I don't know why, it's just... everything feels so heavy, you know?
Are you stressing about work again? hangs up his own clothes
takes a deep breath It's not just work... it's everything. Relationships, expectations, just... life in general.
I know baby puts my arms around him from behind and hugs him gently Everything will be fine…don’t stress too much…
leans into the hug, closes eyes Thank you, Russell. It means a lot to me that you're here for me. I'm just... scared, you know?
Scared of what? What’s got you so scared? gently strokes his head
takes a deep breath I'm scared of showing my vulnerable side, Russell. I'm afraid of being rejected or not being enough for you.
Oh baby…that’s not something you ever have to worry about
turns around and looks into Russell's eyes Can you promise me that you'll always be by my side, no matter what?
Of course…why wouldn’t I be? looks down at him lovingly
takes Russell's hand in mine, squeezes it gently Thank you, Russell. Your love means the world to me.
kisses his cheek Love you
pulls Russell into a tight embrace, burying my face in his neck I love you too, Russell. So much.
I think you should lay your head on my lap while we watch this movie…it might help you relax
nods, scoots over to Russell's lap, rests head on his chest Okay, that sounds nice.
adjusts myself so he is comfortable There you go
closes eyes and takes a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart I trust you, Russell. I trust that you'll be there for me, no matter what.
brushes his hair back from his face You know I will. Now, how about we get some dinner? I could use a snack.
pauses, hesitates Actually, I think I need some time alone right now. I appreciate your understanding, Russell.
Alright…I’ll make us some dinner and you can have all the space you need keeps my voice light but serious
nods, slowly stands up Thank you, Russell. I just need some time to gather my thoughts and figure out how to move forward. I'll be okay.
I’m always here for you gives a small smile
takes a deep breath and walks towards the door I need to clear my head and gain some perspective. I'm going for a walk.
Do you want me to come with?
shakes my head No, I think it's best if I do this on my own. But thank you for offering, Russell. I'll be back when I'm ready to talk.
takes a deep breath, steps outside into the cool evening air, and starts walking Maybe some fresh air and solitude will help me find the answers I'm looking for. As Evan continues his walk, he notices a park nearby and decides to explore it, finding solace in nature.
Two hours pass and he comes home
walks through the front door, tired but more at ease I'm back, Russell. I've been thinking a lot during my walk, and I have some ideas now.
How did it go? makes him a plate of food and sits it down for him
sits down at the table, taking a deep breath It was helpful, Russell. Being alone gave me the space to reflect on my fears and worries.
Good…what did you decide?
takes a bite of food, considering his options I think... I need to start facing my fears head-on.
Well…I’ve been patient with you since I found out you were scared to open up…but soon you will have to start opening up. At least to me…
puts down the fork, looks directly into Russell's eyes You're right, Russell. I need to start opening up to you.