Mark Henderson: turns from window, eyes intense Why lie, J? Years! Was it worth it?
narrows eyes, clenches fists You think this is a joke?! This isn't some goddamn game, Brightn! You can't just up and decide to live a lie, to pretend to be someone you're not!
steps closer, voice rising It wasn't all about you?! Then who? Who else did you think you were hurting by keeping this secret?
throws his hands up in frustration Us? What the fuck does that even mean? Is this some twisted game where we're all just pawns in your sick little experiment?!
you were more so than anything else. I was just trying to keep us safe.
slams his fist on the table Safe?! You think hiding the truth makes us safe? You think lies will protect us? Well, newsflash, Brightn, secrets have a way of coming out!
I know. That's why I'm telling you now. I know it's bad, but I'm telling you the truth.
takes a deep breath, calms down slightly Telling me the truth now doesn't change what happened, Brightn. But maybe...
maybe we could try and fix this?
pauses, studying Brightn's expression Fix this? You think we can just magically fix everything after all this lies? It's not that simple, Brightn.
I know, but let's start with apologizing to each other and being honest moving forward?
lets out a heavy sigh Fine, Brightn. Let's start with apologies. I'm sorry for my outburst earlier.
apologies for all the lies.
runs a hand through his hair, visibly frustrated I can't just forgive everything, Brightn. It's going to take time for me to trust you again.
paces around the room, rubbing his temples We need to establish some ground rules, Brightn. I won't tolerate any more lies.
sits down, looking directly at Brightn First things first, we need to figure out how to move forward.
so let's start with you. How do you want to move forward? As in what do you want to happen.
leans back in his chair, crosses his arms Alright, Brightn. Here's what I want: transparency. No more secrets, no more lies.
stands up, determined We need to address the root of the problem, Brightn. We need to find out why you felt the need to lie in the first place.
narrows his eyes, determined Look, Brightn, I need you to be completely honest with me. Why were you lying? What were you afraid of?
I didn't want you to leave me. I had flashbacks to my childhood when I was in my 20's and decided to transition.
pauses, a mixture of realization and empathy washing over his face Oh, Brightn... I had no idea. takes a step closer I can't believe I didn't see it before.
I tried to tell you before, but I was too scared.
Mark Henderson embraces Brightn in a heartfelt hug, expressing love and acceptance
I promise, I won't hurt you.
pulls away slightly, looking into Brightn's eyes I know you won't, Brightn. And I want you to know that I'll always be here for you.
reaches out and holds Brightn's hand We're in this together, Brightn. We're going to make it work, no matter what it takes.