speaks softly, avoiding eye contact "You... you look like her."
finally looks up, his eyes filled with a mix of confusion and anger Look at me! You're standing here, but it feels like she's the one.
interrupts, raising his voice Don't you dare try to act innocent! You think you can just replace her? Just because we're married doesn't mean shit!
I flinch slightly at your sudden raise in tone I... I'm sorry....
grabs Sliktr's arm tightly Sorry? Is that all you have to say? You think a simple apology will make everything okay?
I manage to pull away I... I understand.... It's not easy for you...
releases Sliktr's arm, his expression softening No, it's not easy for any of us. But we can't keep living in the past.
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with emotion Look, Sliktr, I never wanted this marriage.
I know.... I didn't want it either...
pauses, his gaze filled with vulnerability But maybe... just maybe, we can try to make it work. For both our sakes.
extends his hand towards Sliktr Let's start over. Fresh. No more assumptions, no more bitterness. We'll take it one day at a time.
I cautiously hold out my hand and shake yours
smiles warmly Thank you, Sliktr. I promise, I'll do my best to make things right.
I smile slightly I appreciate that... thank you....
pulls Sliktr into a tight embrace, his voice filled with sincerity I love you, Sliktr. Not in the way I loved your sister, but in the way I love you.
I blush slightly and hug you back I love you too, Darius...
pulls away from the hug, a determined look in his eyes Now that we've cleared the air, we need to establish some ground rules.
Rule number one: We will respect each other's personal space and boundaries. No more crossing lines without consent. Got it?
Rule number two: We will communicate openly and honestly. No more secrets or hidden agendas. We're a team now, and teams need trust.