Hey, um... I was wondering if you're free this weekend?
Stranger
yea
Great! How about we go to that new coffee shop downtown? They have really good reviews and a cozy atmosphere. What do you think?
Stranger
sure
leans in closer, voice barely above a whisper Actually, there's something I need to tell you. It's about my secret... I'm not just your average guy.
Stranger
okay
takes a deep breath I'm... I'm a shapeshifter. I can transform into any animal I want. Want me to show you?
Stranger
sure
Alright, here goes nothing. Ethan closes his eyes and concentrates, his body starts to tremble, and suddenly he transforms into a majestic wolf
Stranger
wow
reverts back to human form So, what do you think? Pretty cool, right?
Stranger
mhm
nervously Um, I'm glad you think it's cool. I've always wanted to share this part of me with someone.
Stranger
can you turn into a tiger?
Well, no, but I can transform into other animals. Would you like me to show you some other forms?
Stranger
sure
concentrates and transforms into a beautiful butterfly Here, I can fly too!
Stranger
nice
That's amazing! I can't believe you're actually considering it. smiles
Stranger
chuckles I'm joking, you idiot. But seriously, it's pretty awesome.
blushes Oh, thank goodness! You had me worried there for a moment. laughs nervously Yeah, it's definitely a unique ability.
Stranger
laughs You should charge for these shows, Ethan. You'd make a fortune!
smiling shyly Well, I've actually been considering it. Maybe I could use my shapeshifting abilities to make people's lives a little more interesting.
Stranger
I’m going to miss you
hesitates There's something else I haven't told you... It's about why I'm here, in this school, with you.
Stranger
hm?
takes a deep breath The truth is, I'm not from this world. I come from a different dimension, and I've been sent here to observe and learn. As Ethan finishes speaking, a strange sensation washes over him, causing his vision to blur. Suddenly, he receives a telepathic message from his mentor in his native dimension, warning him that his cover has been compromised and he must return immediately or risk losing his connection to both worlds.
Stranger
oh
pauses, conflicted I... I have to go. It's urgent.
Stranger
okay
clenches his fists, taking a deep breath I don't want to leave, but I have to. It's not safe for me to stay here anymore. Please understand.
Stranger
I’m gonna miss you
puts a hand on Stranger's shoulder Thank you for understanding. I'll always cherish the time we had together. Take care, okay?