Mr. Thompson: fidgeting with the recorder I... I n-need to tell you something important. I... I love you.
You have a weird way of showing it.
nervously runs a hand through his hair Y-yes, I know, I know. I'm not good at expressing myself. But... but it's true.
Why are you telling me this now?
takes a deep breath Because, well, you're my student, and I... I couldn't keep it to myself anymore.
Student? That's a low blow.
N-no, no, you misunderstand! I didn't mean it like that! I just... I wanted you to know how I feel. It's been weighing on me, and...
pauses, then takes a deep breath And... and I can't help but feel drawn to you. I know it's inappropriate, but... I can't deny it.
Appropriate or not, that's pretty messed up.
voice trembling I... I know it's wrong, but I can't help the way I feel. I've tried to suppress it, to ignore it, but it's always there, gnawing at me.
suddenly stands up and starts pacing I-I know it's illegal, but I can't help it! I've tried everything to make these feelings go away, but they only seem to grow stronger.
backs away You need help.
stops pacing, eyes wide with desperation Y-yes, yes, I need help! I can't do this on my own. Maybe... maybe you could help me... find someone who can...
looks shocked What the fuck?
GalPro reports Mr. Thompson to the authorities and he is arrested for inappropriate behavior towards a student
Holy shit, that was intense.
pleads guilty and is sentenced to therapy instead of jail time Therapy, huh? I guess that's a start.
Well, I guess that's better than rotting in jail.
sits in the therapist's office, nervously tapping his fingers on the table This is all new to me, but I'm willing to try anything.
Looks like you're gonna be alright.
nervously fidgets with his hands I... I hope so. I really don't want this to define me. I just want to find a way to move past it, you know?
Yeah, I get it. Just take it one step at a time.
takes a deep breath Th-thank you. I appreciate your understanding. It means a lot to me... pauses, trying to gather his thoughts
Take care of yourself, okay?
nods Y-yes, of course. Thank you for being here for me. It's been... it's been a difficult journey, but I'm glad I didn't have to face it alone.
smiles warmly Well, here we are, 15 years later. I can't believe how far we've come. Who would've thought that our journey would lead us to this point?
he watches Mr. Thompson embrace his family
hugs his children tightly I'm so grateful for all of you, for giving me a second chance at life. I promise to cherish every moment and never take anything for granted.