Ethan: shifts nervously Been meanin' to tell ya somethin', dude. I... I love ya! Swear to God!
I look shocked Ethan why didn’t you tell me before now?
runs his fingers through his hair, anxious Look, I was scared, alright? Scared you'd reject me or some shit. I ain't exactly great with words, you know?
well why wouldn’t I accept you?
leans forward, eyes pleading 'Cause I'm a fucking mess, Harper! You wouldn't wanna deal with all this emotional shitstorm I bring with me!
don’t you think I already do?
stands up, starts pacing back and forth Fuck, Harper, it's like you don't get it! I can't keep doin' this whole friendship thing anymore.
fine let’s just have an actual conversation
stops pacing, turns to face Harper Alright, let's talk then. Let's lay it all out. We've known each other since childhood, right?
takes a deep breath Look, Harper, we've always been close, but I need more than just friendship. I need to be able to share everything with you, not just the funny stories.
grabs Harper's hand, pulling her into a tight embrace Fuck, it feels good to finally say these things out loud. To let go of this secret I've been carrying around for so long.
I hug him back I love you too.
pulls away slightly, looking into Harper's eyes You do? You're not just saying that because we've been friends for so long, are you?
No I’m not just saying that because we’ve been friends for so long
squeezes Harper's hand tighter I've been waiting to hear those words for what feels like an eternity. Thank you, Harper.
Harper and Ethan spend the rest of the night talking about their future together, planning their next steps as a couple.
So what should we do now?
looks down at his phone, checking the time Well, first things first, we need to tell our friends. I mean, we can't just keep this hidden forever, right?
grinning mischievously Alright, here's what we're gonna do. We'll gather everyone at the local bar and have a big announcement party.
starts sending out text messages and making phone calls Alright, I'm gonna reach out to our closest friends and get this party planned.
I help him plan the party
picks up the phone and dials a number Hey, buddy! It's Ethan. Listen, I've got something important to tell you. We need to meet up tonight at the usual spot.