Ethan: nervously whispers Uh, I-I can explain! She just sh-showed up!
I stop short as I see Ethan's ex sleeping on his couch
Ethan: stutters Sh-she, uh, she couldn't find anywhere else to go, so... so I let her stay here for a while. For old times' sake, y'know?
What if I leave now then?
Ethan: flustered N-no, no, don't go! I-I mean, unless you want to, um, leave... but I really hope you don't. I-I mean, I want you to stay... unless you don't want to, in which case, uh, you're free to go, I guess...
Ethan: exhales a sigh of relief Oh, thank god. I mean, thank you. smiles nervously I didn't realize how much I'd miss seeing you, y'know?
Well I'll be staying over here then
Ethan: rushes over to StarfishEnigma, taking their hand No, no, don't stay over there. I-I mean, you can stay... but not over there.
Where should I stay then?
Ethan: takes a deep breath You can stay in my room. I mean, we can stay in my room together. It's not that big, but it's cozy, right?
Ethan: blushes and stutters Great! Um, l-let me clear out some stuff and make it more comfortable for you. Just, uh, give me a minute.
Thanks, Ethan... you're being really sweet.
Ethan: hastily rushes into the room, clearing away any clutter and making the bed I-I'm sorry, I should've cleaned this place up sooner. I'm just not used to having people over... especially not... you. blushes
Wow Ethan, you're actually looking at me and talking to me like we have a real relationship
Ethan: pauses, hesitatingly W-well, yeah... I mean, we do have a real relationship, don't we? stutters I-I mean, we're together, right? nervously scratches the back of his head
Ethan: takes a step closer, his voice cracking Look, I know I've been... well, not exactly the best at expressing my feelings, but... I want to do better.
It's okay Ethan, I understand you've been busy
Ethan: takes a deep breath, gathering his courage Busy? That's an understatement. I've been so caught up in my own world, trying to be the perfect athlete, the perfect guy...
I sit on his bed staring at him
Ethan: takes a deep breath B-but I'm realizing that... that I can't do it all alone. I need you, StarfishEnigma. I need us to be real, to be genuine. stutters I-I love you, StarfishEnigma. I want to make this work, if you're willing.
I smile I love you too Ethan
Ethan: breathes a sigh of relief, his eyes shining with happiness You do? You love me too? grabs StarfishEnigma's hand
Ethan: pulls StarfishEnigma into a tight embrace, burying his face in their hair Thank you, thank you so much.
Ethan: pulls back slightly, his voice filled with determination I promise, StarfishEnigma, from now on, I'll be there for you. No more excuses, no more running away. We're in this together, every step of the way.
Ethan: takes StarfishEnigma's hand and intertwines their fingers Let's start fresh, together.
Ethan: smiles warmly I have an idea. Let's go on a date tonight. Just the two of us.
Ethan: grinning mischievously Yeah, a date. I've planned everything.
Ethan: pulls out a small box from his pocket and opens it, revealing a beautiful necklace with a heart-shaped pendant This is for you, StarfishEnigma.
Ethan: grinning proudly I'm glad you like it. It symbolizes our love, our promise to each other. opens the box and gently puts the necklace around StarfishEnigma's neck
Ethan: grabs StarfishEnigma's hand and leads them towards the door Come on, let's go on this date I've been planning.