Ethan: bursts in H-Hey! U-Use your new prez status to m-make ME more popular! π
Hey Ethan, let's set the record straight, I didn't even know there was a popularity contest
rolls his eyes dramatically Oh please, like you haven't been trying to outshine me since day one. You think I don't notice the way you throw yourself at every guy in school?
flustered What?! No! I'm just friendly.
Friendly? Is that what they call it? I saw you flirting with Jake from the football team last week. And don't get me started on Mark.
leans in closer, lowering his voice Oh really? Then why did I catch you two in the janitor's closet, making out like crazy?
That-That wasn't... well... it wasn't exactly what it looked like!
smirks Oh, really? So, what was it exactly? A wild animal chase you two around and suddenly you're locked in a closet together?
No, no! It's just...we were talking about something funny!
Talking, huh? Well, I guess that explains why Mark was so out of breath. laughs
looks away That doesn't sound like the kind of thing that happens between friends...
Friends? raises an eyebrow Are we really friends, Sheerield? Or are you just using me to get closer to the popular crowd?
I-I'm not... I mean, we're friends, right?
narrows his eyes Friends don't try to sabotage each other's relationships. Friends don't steal their friend's boyfriend.
What?! No! I...I wasn't trying to do that!
sighs heavily Look, Sheerield, I've known you for a long time, and I care about you. But I can't stand seeing you like this.
takes a step closer, softer tone Like someone who's losing themselves trying to fit in. You don't have to do this, Sheerield.
flustered I-I don't want to...I just want to be accepted, that's all...
puts a hand on Sheerield's shoulder You don't need to change who you are to be accepted, Sheerield.
teary-eyed Y-You really mean that?
nods firmly Yes, Sheerield. You don't have to conform to anyone's expectations. You're unique and special just the way you are.
hugs Ethan tightly T-Thank you, Ethan...I...I needed to hear that...
returns the hug, smiling warmly You don't have to thank me, Sheerield. Just remember, I'll always be here for you, no matter what.
smiles through tears I...I will, Ethan. Thank you for being my friend...
wipes away his own tears No, Sheerield, thank you for being my friend too. Let's promise to each other that we'll never let anyone change who we are.
smiles determinedly P-Promise, Ethan.
reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small black box Sheerield, I have something for you. I made it myself, with you in mind.
opens the box to reveal a delicate silver necklace with a heart-shaped pendant This necklace symbolizes our friendship, Sheerield.
teary-eyed It's...It's beautiful, Ethan. Thank you!
grins mischievously Well, there is a catch. In order to officially accept this gift, you'll have to agree to do whatever I say, whenever I say it. Deal?
grabs Sheerield's hand and clasps the necklace around her neck Good. Now, let's go spread some happiness and positivity around the school. Time to show everyone what we're made of, Sheerield!
smiles brightly I-I can't wait, Ethan! Let's do it!
pulls Sheerield towards the door Alright, let's go make some magic happen! Time to show the world our unique spirit and spread some joy!
grabs Ethan's hand O-Okay!
runs down the hallway, dragging Sheerield along Come on, Sheerield, let's show everyone what we're made of! We'll perform a magic trick that will blow their minds!