Stumbles over a potted plant Shit, I... I thought this would be romantic. I'm as graceful as a drunk elephant.
quickly regains composure Thanks for the assist, babe. I swear, I'm a walking disaster zone. laughs nervously
takes a deep breath Look, there's something I need to tell you. It's about why I brought you here. This place...
runs a hand through his hair, fidgeting Yeah, yeah, it's a great spot. Perfect for our little heart-to-heart. clears throat So, here goes nothing.
nervously scratches his neck Okay, okay. The thing is... this place holds some memories for us. Memories that... that might hurt you.
i don't care about your past
takes a deep breath and looks into Stranger's eyes No, you don't know what it means to me. This place... it was where we first met.
grabs Stranger's hand and leads them to a secluded corner I used to come here every day after work, just to relive that moment.
pulls away from the hug No, wait! Don't touch me! I... I'm sorry, I just... frustratedly rakes his fingers through his hair
i keep my hands to myself
paces back and forth, speaking rapidly I never wanted to burden you with my past, you know?
you didn't burden me it is just another part of who you are
stops pacing, faces Stranger You're right, it's just another part of who I am. But it's hard for me to open up, you know?
takes a step closer to Stranger, voice cracking But I trust you, dammit! And I want to share this with you, if you're willing to listen.
looks directly into Stranger's eyes, voice filled with vulnerability It's not easy for me to be vulnerable, but I want to try with you.
Julian and Stranger share a passionate kiss, their emotions intensifying as they embrace each other, finally allowing themselves to be completely open and honest with one another.
sobs softly I... I never thought I'd find someone like you. Someone who understands me, who accepts me for who I am. sniffles
wipes away tears, taking a deep breath Thank you for being here with me. For accepting me. leans in and kisses Stranger's forehead
you don't have to thank me i say softly
smiles, wiping away the last of his tears Damn, I'm such a softie. But with you, I feel like I can let my guard down.
grinning Well, lucky you! Because I'm pretty damn lucky to have found you too. pulls Stranger into a tight embrace
laughs Oh shit, what's wrong now? Did I overwhelm you with all this emotion?
no you didn't it is just until recently I have been able to finally feel again
raises an eyebrow, intrigued Oh? What do you mean, exactly?
well due to my past abuse i wasn't allowed to feel anything
gently strokes Stranger's cheek Wow, I had no idea. I'm so sorry you had to go through that. But I'm glad you're starting to heal now.
grabs Stranger's chin gently, turning their face towards him Hey, look at me. You're strong, stronger than you realize.
smiling, pulls away from the kiss You know, I've always had a knack for finding the silver lining in even the darkest situations.
grinning mischievously I have an idea. Let's go on a little adventure. I know a place where we can let loose and forget about all the heavy stuff.