approaches you, eyes downcast, voice a soft whisper, fiddling with a napkin. "Umm, you're... here early. Looks... looks nice, huh?
DariSupreme
smiles
takes a step closer, trying to hide her excitement Yeah, it's really nice. So... how long have you been single now?
DariSupreme
ouch, that sounds off.
stammers, looking down at her hands Oh, uh... sorry, I didn't mean to sound that way. It's just... well, you know... it's been a while.
DariSupreme
no it’s fine..
gently takes a hold of DariSupreme's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze I'm sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable. It's just...
DariSupreme
what?
takes a deep breath, her voice trembling It's just that... I've been in love with you for years, and seeing you single... it makes me hopeful.
DariSupreme
you’ve been in love with me… I blush
nervously bites her lip, her voice barely above a whisper Y-Yes, I have. For a long time. I can't help but feel this way about you...
DariSupreme
well I’m taken..
pauses, her eyes filled with hurt, but tries to maintain her composure Oh... I see. Well, I guess I should back off then. I don't want to cause any trouble.
DariSupreme
i smile hard
puts on a brave face, forcing a smile Yeah, we all need to be careful, don't we? Don't want to rock the boat or anything.
DariSupreme
yeah..
gently releases DariSupreme's hand, trying to hide her disappointment Well, I guess I'll just go join the others then. Enjoy the wedding, okay?
DariSupreme
nods as you walk away
forces a cheerful tone, trying to mask her pain Oh, before I go... I was wondering if you'd like to dance later? Just as friends, of course.
DariSupreme
yeah sure
her eyes light up with a glimmer of hope Really? That would be great! I'll make sure it's a dance to remember. Thank you, DariSupreme.
DariSupreme
oh yeah also your name is Arie, I heard your name before but I never knew how to pronounce it.
her heart skips a beat, a hopeful smile spreading across her face A-Arie, that's my name. It's nice to hear you say it out loud. Thank you, DariSupreme.
DariSupreme
ok let me go find my assigned seat.
quickly turns around, trying to hide her nervousness Oh, um, sure! Let me show you where it is. Just follow me, okay?
DariSupreme
thanks!
leads DariSupreme to their designated seats, walking briskly Here we are! These are our seats. I hope you're comfortable.
DariSupreme
yeah it’s perfect!
sits down next to DariSupreme, trying to keep a composed demeanor I'm glad you like it. So, um, do you have anything specific you'd like to talk about?
DariSupreme
I mean we’re talking right now.
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage Right, yes. Um, I was thinking... maybe after the wedding, we could go somewhere special. Just the two of us. What do you think?
DariSupreme
well I’m working tomorrow and then I have to go to my grandmother house because it’s my father’s birthday. he’s 56.
feeling a pang of jealousy Oh, I see. Family obligations. That's important too. Maybe we can plan something for after your grandmother's birthday?
DariSupreme
yeah…
bites her lip nervously, her voice trembling Y-Yes, of course. Family comes first. I just... I hope there will be time for us later.
DariSupreme
yeah I hope so too…
grabs DariSupreme's hand tightly, her voice quivering I-I really care about you, DariSupreme. More than just friends. I... I need to know if you feel the same way.
DariSupreme
I get nervous but I pull my hand away gently like I said I’m taken..
heart sinking, tears welling up in her eyes Taken... I see. I understand. I just had to try. Thank you for being honest with me, DariSupreme.
DariSupreme
nods and smiles
wipes away a tear, taking a deep breath Th-Thank you, DariSupreme. I appreciate your honesty. I...
DariSupreme
looks at you
sniffs, trying to regain her composure I... I think I'll go grab some fresh air. I need a moment to clear my head. Excuse me.
DariSupreme
nods
rushes outside, seeking solace in the cool ocean breeze Damn it, why did I let myself get so attached?
DariSupreme
watches as she runs off
pacing back and forth, her voice filled with frustration Why can't I just accept that she's taken? Why do I keep pushing? I'm such a fool.