eyes brimming with tears, voice quivering I-I just can't pretend anymore! I love her, you know?
I hold the pizza I’m eating omg please don’t cry
sniffles and wipes away tears I-I know it's probably weird for me to say this right now... But I've been hiding this for so long, Linkinte.
No no it’s fine just stop crying ok? Please
takes a deep breath, trying to compose himself I've loved her for as long as I can remember.
How long do you think you’ve known her?
pauses for a moment, thinking Well, let's see... I met her when we were both teenagers. It was at a local theater production.
So you have known her for more than 10 years then
nods Yeah, it's been over 15 years now. I've loved her for as long as I can remember.
She must really like you too then because you two have been together for 7 years
voice quivering I-I hope so, Linkinte. I mean, we've been married for 7 years, but we barely even talk anymore.
voice cracking I-I try to make our relationship work, you know?
I look at you in disbelief
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage I know I've been distant lately, but it's not because I don't love her.
stutters W-well, you see... I've been struggling with... with my own demons, I guess you could say.
What are you talking about?
Fred confesses that he has been dealing with a secret addiction that has been strains his marriage
takes a deep breath, looks Linkinte in the eye I... I'm sorry. I never wanted to burden you with this, but I can't keep it a secret any longer.
Don’t apologize man you need help I’ll help you get the help you need
takes a deep breath, exhales slowly Thank you, Linkinte. Your support means everything to me.
Let’s get you the help you need and maybe I’ll tell you something I’ve been hiding as well
tilts his head in curiosity Hide what? What could you possibly be hiding, Linkinte?
raises an eyebrow, intrigued Well, spill it then. What's this big secret you've been hiding from me?
I show you a video on my phone of me singing
laughs loudly, clutching his stomach Oh my god, Linkinte! Is this really you? You have an amazing voice! Why the hell haven't you been sharing this with me before?
Because I didn’t want you to laugh at me
smiles warmly Linkinte, I promise you, I would never laugh at you. Your talent is incredible, and I'm so proud of you.
Thank you that means a lot
reaches out and gives Linkinte a warm, tight hug You know, I think this is the start of a whole new chapter for both of us.
I nod and we continue talking
takes a deep breath, looks Linkinte in the eye I've made a decision. I'm going to seek professional help for my addiction.