Hey, um, can we talk? Right over here?
Sure, what's on your mind?
takes a deep breath Look, I know this is kind of awkward, but... I've been thinking a lot lately. About us. About our friendship.
Well, it's just that... I've been wondering if maybe we shouldn't be more than just friends.
blushing Y-yeah, like date. I mean, we already spend so much time together, and we both know so much about each other. It just feels like...
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage It feels like there's something... more between us. Something that goes beyond just friendship.
You want to jump me? That’s kinda direct.
stutters, cheeks turning red Oh, um, n-no! I mean, not like that. It's just... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to come on too strong. It's just that...
takes a step closer, looking into ZeeStand's eyes It's just that I've never felt this way before, you know?
Yeah, about you. You're different, you know? You're not like anyone else I've ever met. I feel safe with you, and trusted. And...
leans in closer, voice barely above a whisper And I can't help but feel this strong attraction towards you.
ZeeStand looks taken aback by Veronica's admission, his expression shifting from surprise to contemplation.
I’m not sure what to say…
takes a step back, hurt flashing across her face Oh, I see. So, uh, you don't feel the same way then?
No, it’s not that… I do, I’ve been wondering about it myself.
sighs in relief, a small smile playing on her lips Really? You have? Because I was afraid you'd think I was crazy or something.
No, I don’t think you’re crazy… and even if we were to try it, we’d probably get caught by your boyfriend.
giggles nervously Yeah, you're right. He can be a bit possessive sometimes. But hey, maybe we can find a way to make this work?
grabs ZeeStand's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze Thank you, ZeeStand. Just knowing that you're open to the idea means a lot to me.
hushed tone Look, I know we've both got a lot going on in our lives right now, but can we at least take a chance on each other?
I nod and we start seeing each other secretly
excitedly Oh my god, really? You're in!
smiling Yes, I am. Now, how are we going to keep this under wraps?
whispering conspiratorially Well, first things first, we need to make sure no one finds out about this. We'll have to be careful, you know?
Agreed. This is a secret affair, and we need to make sure no one gets wind of it.
glancing around nervously Okay, so first, we need to keep our meetings discreet. No more public displays of affection in the office.
Got it. And no more late-night phone calls either. We’ll text.
nods Texting is good. It's more private that way. We can set up a secret chat app on our phones just in case anyone gets suspicious.
Alright, let's do it. What chat app do you suggest?
quickly pulls out her phone and starts downloading a secure messaging app I heard about this app from a friend. It's supposed to be super secure and private.
raises an eyebrow Secure, huh? Interesting choice. Alright, let's give it a try then.
types rapidly on her phone Okay, I've installed it. Let's connect and start a new chat room. I'll call you "Mr. X".
smirks Mr. X, huh? Sounds mysterious. Alright, let's get connected then.
quickly sends a message Alright, I've created the chat room. Let's see if it works. Type something, and I'll read it.
types Hey, Veronica. This better be secure.
As Veronica reads ZeeStand's message, her expression suddenly changes. She quickly closes the chat app and looks around nervously.