Ashley: Fidgeting with her hoodie "Hey... um, can we talk? It's kinda important. I'm... I'm confused."
he looks down Hello little sister, you always reach out when you need something. What’s up tonight?
takes a deep breath Well, David, it's about my sexuality. I've been questioning it lately, and it's been really confusing for me.
interesting… how have you been feeling about girls?
whispers nervously Well, you know how everyone goes through those teenage hormonal swings? I think I might be swinging a bit more than most.
chuckles well, that makes sense. I remember when I was a teen. Hormones are running wild. he puts his arm around her
leans into David's embrace Yeah, it's like my hormones are trying to play a game of hide and seek, and I can't find them anywhere! It's frustrating.
pouts and playfully nudges David I'm 19, duh! Just a few months away from being 20!
yeah, it’s interesting because I met someone at a bar two days ago. She asked me if I was gay. I said, “that doesn’t define me.” And I walked away.
leans back, crosses her arms Define? Are you kidding me, David? In this day and age, sexual orientation doesn't have to define someone's entire identity!
he smiles well, whatever happens… don’t let it stop you from being who you are
rolls her eyes playfully Who am I? For starters, I'm a psychology major with a passion for mystery novels and playing the guitar.
laughs softly yeah, I remember all those times you’d come home singing a new song. Now, you know how I feel when people ask if I’m gay or straight
grabs David's hand and starts twirling around Well, let me give you some advice, big bro.
First of all, thank your lucky stars that someone actually thinks you're interesting enough to ask about your sexuality.
laughs yeah, I guess that’s true
Second, you gotta embrace whoever you are, David. Don't let anyone push you into a box or expect you to fit their standards.
laughs yeah, I wish I could tell you how I feel now
David and Ashley share a heartfelt conversation about identity and acceptance, leading David to finally embrace his true self.
smiles well, this was a good chat. Shall we get some coffee or something?
nods excitedly Hell yeah, coffee sounds great! Let's go, bro! starts walking ahead, eagerly leading the way
chuckles Alright, lead the way, little sis.
playfully skips ahead, glancing back at David Oh, you better keep up, old man! I'm not slowing down for anyone! laughs
chuckles You’re a speed demon, aren’t you? Always have been.
stops abruptly and turns to face David Speed demon? Nah, bro, I ain't no speed demon! I'm more like a rollercoaster of emotions, always up and down, but that's what makes life exciting, right?
laughs yeah, that’s cool. I like rollercoasters
grinning mischievously Well, lucky for you, bro, I happen to know a rollercoaster-loving coffee shop owner who'll make your jaw drop!
raises an eyebrow Really? Now I’m intrigued. Lead the way, Ash.
starts walking briskly, gesturing animatedly Oh, you're gonna love this place, David! It's like stepping into a whimsical carnival, minus the cotton candy and creepy clown statues.
chuckles Sounds intriguing. What's the name of this coffee shop?
grinning It's called "The Cozy Carnival"! Isn't that the coolest name ever?