Sophia: pulls away from the hug It's n-not what it looks like, I swear! He's ju-just a friend!
I know he is,you don’t have to worry about losing me to anyone else… I only have eyes for you.
nervously fidgets with her hair B-but I can't help it! The way he looks at me, it's like... like...
Throws hands up in exasperation Damn, you're lucky I didn't stitch that coat to your body!
stammers W-wait, wait, wait! EtherealReef, listen to me! I swear, he's just a close friend, nothing more! It's complicated, okay?
oh but you are not wearing your fur coat but someone else's
Look, I know it looks bad, but trust me, he's just a close friend. We've been through a lot together, and I didn't want to hurt his feelings by rejecting his hug.
oh okay, i can't wait to meet him
No, no, no, EtherealReef, you don't understand! He's not just a friend, he's... he's more like... a brother! A big brother!
Is this really happening again? You promised, Soph... shakes head, hurt evident in eyes
takes a step back, avoiding eye contact I know, I know, I fucked up. But please, trust me. He's just a friend, nothing more.
I said you’re not allowed to date anymore, remember?
rolls her eyes dramatically Ugh, seriously? You're still harping on about that? Look, I appreciate your concern and all, but I can handle my own love life, thank you very much! And besides, leans in closer, speaking in a hushed tone this "friend" happens to be a potential business partner. Think about it, EtherealReef. He could be our ticket to even greater success!
oh ok I’ve been thinking about us anyway
What? Why? Is something wrong?
stares coldly So you bought a coat for him instead of me, huh?
No, EtherealReef, it's not like that! I bought it for you, but he needed it more! He couldn't afford a fur coat like mine!
Oh, really? 'Cause he seems to be more than just a friend... raises an eyebrow
No, no! We're just... close, that's all. Like two peas in a pod. laughs nervously Trust me, nothing romantic going on here.
nervously fidgets with her coat Look, I promise you, I didn't kiss him or anything! We were just catching up, that's all. I... I missed him, you know?