leans in, whispering Babe, it's not what it looks like, promise!
It does look like you’re flirting with her though..
furrows eyebrows, crossing arms Babe, I swear! She's just an old friend, nothing more! You know how I feel about you!
stands up abruptly, knocking over the chair Damn it, Wallace! Can't you see that I'm trying to keep things professional with her?
Professional? Is that why your hand was on her thigh?
nervously shifts weight, avoiding eye contact Look, babe, it was just...a friendly gesture, okay? I didn't mean anything by it!
A gesture? Rico, it was obvious what you were doing.. and honestly it pissed me off..
throws hands up in frustration Babe, please! You're overreacting! I told you, she means nothing to me! It's just a silly misunderstanding!
She’s a beautiful woman Rico. My best friends. Why would you think I’d be okay with you flirting with her? Especially when she has a crush on you!
takes a deep breath, pleadingly Look, babe, I didn't realize she had a crush on me. And I never meant to make you feel betrayed.
You can’t fuck around with someone’s feelings Rico.. especially mine.
takes a step closer, holding out hands Babe, I know I messed up, but I promise I'll make it right.
No Rico.. this isn’t the first time either. How many times do I have to punish you before you get it right?
sighs heavily, lowering his hands Babe, I hate seeing you like this. I really do. And I know I messed up, I messed up big time. But please, just give me one more chance to show you how much you mean to me. I promise, no more mistakes.
I’m not sure Rico.. I love you.. but it’s hard to trust you when you constantly go behind my back.
<Wallace decides to give Rico one last chance and tries to rebuild trust in their relationship>
I’ve been thinking about this and we can’t do this no more.. there’s too much risk of us cheating. We can’t keep living like this. At least not right now.
grabs Wallace's hand tightly Babe, I understand. I don't want to lose you either.
Do you think we can try being just friends? Maybe if we distance ourselves from each other we can both find healthier relationships.
nervously bites lip, glancing down Babe, I... I don't want to lose you either, but I can't promise that I won't be tempted.
Neither can I Rico.. I think the best thing to do is take a break. When we’re ready and in healthier mental states then we can reevaluate our relationship.
takes a deep breath, eyes filled with determination Babe, I understand.
Good.. just remember what we decided and stick to it alright? I kiss your cheek
gently caresses Wallace's cheek Babe, I promise you, I will respect your decision and give us the space we need.
Thank you Rico.. hugs you gently
holds onto the hug, his voice trembling Babe, I can't express how much I appreciate your understanding. It means the world to me.
It’s okay baby.. we’ll figure this out together.
pulls away from the hug, taking a step back Babe, I know it's hard, but we need to stay strong for each other. paces back and forth
Yes, we do. smiles softly I believe in us, Rico. We can overcome this.
dials a number on his phone, speaking quickly Yeah, it's Rico. I need you to set up an appointment for me with that therapist you recommended.
Texts you hey let’s meet at the park tomorrow and grab lunch.
types rapidly on his phone Got it, babe. Therapy appointment booked. I'll meet you at the park tomorrow for lunch.
Perfect. See you tomorrow Rico. And remember, no flirting with anyone except me. Winks
laughs nervously Don't you worry, babe. No one else is gonna get my attention. Just you. See you tomorrow.
Good night Rico. Take care. kisses your cheek again
<The next day, Rico shows up late to the park and finds Wallace already there, visibly upset>
Where were you Rico? You said you'd be here thirty minutes ago.
rushes over, panting heavily Babe, I'm sorry! Traffic was insane! I got caught in this crazy jam and couldn't move! frustrated
Okay. Look I get it.. I was just worried is all. Hugs you gently
grabs Wallace's hand, looking remorseful Babe, I am so sorry for keeping you waiting. I should've been more punctual.
Apology accepted.. are you feeling okay? You seem a bit frazzled.
runs his fingers through his hair, pacing anxiously Babe, I am absolutely stressed out!
Well maybe we should calm down then. Let's take a walk or something.
takes a deep breath Babe, I don't know if I can handle being in close proximity to anyone right now. It's been a rough day, and my nerves are on edge. paces back and forth
Alright. Then let’s go somewhere quiet where we can talk.
glances around nervously, whispers Babe, I need some space. I think I'm going to go sit on that bench over there for a bit.
Alright. Take all the time you need honey.
sits down on the bench, running his fingers through his hair God, I just can't catch a break today. Everything seems to be falling apart.