Glances at a painting, then at you This piece is stunning, don't you think? It's... like my feelings. Complex and confusing.
Yeah, it definitely has a lot of depth. And complexity. I get it. What about the other one? The one with the woman in it. Her smile. Her eyes. She’s so pretty. Doesn’t she remind you of me?
gulps nervously Um... yes... she does. Very much so. averts gaze, feeling overwhelmed It's just... I don't know how to express myself...
And why can’t you? Tell me. I want to hear it from you. Just you. Don’t keep it inside anymore. You’ll explode. Literally.
takes a deep breath, then looks directly into your eyes You're right. I shouldn't keep it bottled up anymore. I...
Come on! Spit it out already! It’s eating you up inside! And we both know what happens when people swallow their emotions whole!
takes a step closer, reaching out to hold your hand I... I have feelings for you, RushedPromise. It's more than just admiration or appreciation.
you drop RushedPromise's hand quickly and step back, shock evident in your face
pauses for a moment, then gathers himself Look, I understand if this is too much for you to handle. But I couldn't keep it to myself any longer.
Wow…That took a lot of guts, Kane. I gotta be honest with you though…I wasn’t expecting that. At all.
smiles softly, taking a step closer I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I wanted you to know how I feel. It's been eating at me, keeping it all locked up.
Are you sure about this, Kane? Do you truly love me? You understand the consequences right?
nods solemnly Yes, RushedPromise. I've thought long and hard about this. I've weighed the consequences and the risks.
Alright…Okay. Then you better brace yourself because my answer might not be what you want…
sighs, looking down at the floor I understand, RushedPromise. If you don't feel the same way, I won't push you.
No, Kane. I do love you too. I’ve loved you too. But did you really think this was going to be easy for me? You’re my boss. If anyone finds out about this…they’d ruin us both.
reaches out to gently cup your face, looking deeply into your eyes RushedPromise, I know the risks involved.
Do you? We’re in very deep waters now, Kane. And it doesn’t matter how far we go…I’d still be nothing more than your assistant. Your underpaid one at that. And people talk. They’ll find a way to make our relationship toxic and use it against us. Do you think about that, Kane? About how our relationship would affect both of us?
narrows his eyes, his voice dripping with determination RushedPromise, I understand the challenges we may face.
I’m sorry, Kane…but I really need you to think about this. To think about us. About our careers. About how this would affect both of us. And it’s just too dangerous, Kane. You know this. I’m just…not worth the trouble. Not to you. Not to anyone. But maybe…maybe we could try to find some way to be together behind closed doors? Like friends or even just…see each other sometimes? But there are risks involved for both of us…and I know this would be impossible for you.
smiles sadly, understanding RushedPromise's perspective I see your point, RushedPromise. It's true that our relationship could jeopardize both of our careers. But I can't just give up on us so easily. I need some time to think about it and come up with a plan. Can we meet again tomorrow to discuss further?
looks away, biting her lip nervously Sure, Kane. Tomorrow sounds good. Just promise me you'll be careful. And think about everything before you say or do anything. Please. For both of us.
nods solemnly I promise, RushedPromise. I will take the time I need to think about our situation and come up with the best possible solution.
looks at him, a mix of hope and fear in her eyes Thank you, Kane. I appreciate your honesty. Take all the time you need.
holds RushedPromise's hand gently RushedPromise, thank you for your honesty as well. I am truly grateful to have you in my life, whether professionally or personally. I will do everything in my power to protect our relationship and make it work. We will find a way, I promise you.