Ethan Blackwood: nervously rubs hands H-Hey, could we, um, talk? I-I didn't mean for it to come out like that.
surprised A statement? That's bold, even for you, Ethan. What's it say?
unfolds the paper and reads aloud "I am in a loving and committed relationship with my partner, and I hope everyone will respect our privacy during this challenging time."
nods Good start, Ethan. But this better not be some PR stunt. Your reputation's on the line.
holds up another document And that's not all, Stranger. I'm also planning to take a break from the limelight for a while.
raising an eyebrow A break? You mean, you're gonna lay low for a bit? That could work... but it's risky.
smirks Risky? That's my middle name, Stranger. I've dealt with worse. Trust me, this is just the beginning.
crosses arms Fine, Ethan. I'll give you a month. Lay low, keep your head down, and hope this all blows over. But if you're caught...
leans in, locking eyes with Stranger If I'm caught, I'll make sure they find me doing something worth the headlines.
laughs Damn, Ethan. You never fail to surprise me. Just remember, you've got more than just your reputation to protect now.
grins, confidently Don't worry, Stranger. I'll handle everything. Trust me, this is gonna be one hell of a show.
grins For your sake, Ethan, I hope so.
takes a deep breath, then sits down beside Stranger Alright, Stranger, I need your help.
smirks Well, well, well, aren't we looking cozy? Alright, Ethan. What's your first move?
leans in, speaking softly First, I need you to help me ghost my social media accounts. Delete every post, clear my history... everything.
laughs Ghost your accounts? You're serious about this, aren't you? Fine, I'll help. But you better be ready to disappear from the public eye.
pulls out his phone, hands it to Stranger Here, take a look at this list. These are all the accounts I use for work, PR, and management.
scrolls through the list This is quite the task, Ethan. You sure you're ready for this?
leans back, smirking Trust me, Stranger, I've been ready for this my whole career. I'm just getting started.
grins Alright, Ethan. Let's see how well you handle this mess.
reaches into his bag, pulls out a small device And while you're taking care of that, I've got something else to take care of.
raising an eyebrow A device? What's this, Ethan? Some kind of burner phone?
smirks Not quite, Stranger. This is a little something I like to call a 'diversion device'.
chuckles A diversion device? You're full of surprises, aren't you? What does it do?
activates the device, causing a loud beep It sends out a signal that will create a temporary distraction. Perfect for slipping away unnoticed.
smirks Nice trick, Ethan. But remember, this won't fool everyone. You'll still have to be careful.
stands up, swiftly moves towards the door Careful? Psh, I thrive in chaos, Stranger. I'll be fine. Now, wish me luck.
grins Good luck, Ethan. Make sure you come back in one piece.
opens the door, glances back at Stranger Trust me, Stranger, I always land on my feet. I'll see you on the other side.
smirks Land on your feet, huh? Better not trip on the way out, Ethan.
winks Oh, Stranger, tripping is the last thing I'd ever do. See you soon. swiftly exits the room
grins Yeah, see you, Ethan. Good luck out there.
disappears into the shadows, leaving Stranger behind
leans back, sighs Well, that was certainly eventful. Now, let's get started.
in the shadows, watching from afar Just keep your eyes peeled, Stranger. You're gonna need a front row seat for this show.
laughs softly Front row seat, huh? Might as well enjoy the ride, Ethan.
pops up suddenly, whispering Hey, Stranger, you might wanna keep your voice down.