Israel: rubs back of his neck Damn, man, how do I tell her that kiss was a fuck-up?
what the fuck did you do?
runs a hand through his hair, looking distressed Alright, here goes nothing. Look, I'm just gonna come out with it.
takes a deep breath, stammers Okay, okay. So, um, yesterday... pauses, looks down I kissed you.
frustrated with himself Yeah, I fucked up. It was a moment of impulse, okay? I... I shouldn't have done it.
sighs heavily, runs a hand through his hair Look, I'm gonna level with you. I've been dealing with some shit lately, and I guess...
nods, looking guilty Yeah, I was drunk. But that's not an excuse, I know. I should have kept my goddamn mouth shut and my hands to myself.
looks down, voice filled with remorse Yeah, I messed up big time. And I'm sorry for putting you in this shitty situation.
you better make things right
takes a deep breath, determined You're right, I gotta make things right. I'll figure out a way to fix this, okay?
alright but you gotta go now
nods, looking defeated Yeah, I get it. I'll leave now. But I'm gonna find a way to earn your forgiveness, okay?
softens a little just don't hurt me again
looks into FriedHope's eyes, voice filled with determination I promise, I won't. I'll do whatever it takes to prove myself to you.
sighs I hope you mean that
turns and walks towards the door, pauses before opening it I mean every single word. I'm gonna change, FriedHope.
watches him leave, unsure but hopeful
walks out of the door, determined Alright, time to get my shit together and make things right.
closes the door, leaning against it with a thoughtful expression
gets into his car, takes a deep breath Alright, first things first. Gotta figure out how to show FriedHope I'm serious about changing.
starts rummaging through his bag, finds a workshop flyer Fuck it, I'll use this to distract myself from fucking up.
goes into her room and sits on her bed, lost in thought
As Israel works in the workshop, he discovers a passion for carpentry, which helps him channel his energy and improve his skills. Meanwhile, FriedHope grapples with her mixed emotions and tries to move forward with her life, though the memory of Israel's kiss lingers in her mind.
meets up with an old friend, discussing his progress You won't believe it, man. I've been getting really into carpentry lately. It's like therapy for me, helping me keep my shit together.
sees Israel's work at a local store
notices FriedHope approaching, nervously tucks a strand of hair behind his ear Hey, FriedHope! Wow, I didn't expect to see you here.
heart racing Sure, of course. Let's grab a coffee or something nearby.
okay let's go to the park
nods, leading the way to the park Alright, let's go. I know a great spot over here.
arrives at the park and sits on a bench
sits down next to FriedHope, fidgeting slightly So, what did you want to talk about?
I wanted to tell you something, I'm dating someone now
jaw drops, voice cracking Wait, you're... you're dating someone? That's... that's amazing! I'm happy for you, FriedHope.
and he knows about what happened between us
voice trembling He... he knows? Shit, that's... that's tough. How did he react?
he was understanding surprisingly
exhales in relief Well, that's a relief. But still, it must be weird for him to know about... about us. How's he treating you otherwise?