fidgeting with a gym towel, avoids eye contact You... uh, you really mean that? About, you know, us?
InteriorQuayle
Yeah, I do. I'm in love with you. Not because you're rich or famous. But because you're you.
stammers I-I mean, I appreciate that, but... pauses, takes a deep breath InteriorQuayle, I don't know if I can do this.
InteriorQuayle
It's okay, Bilal. We don't have to rush into anything. Just know that I'm here for you, no matter what.
takes a step closer, voice cracking It's just... I've been hurt before, InteriorQuayle. I don't want to go through that pain again.
InteriorQuayle
Oh, Bilal. I never meant to make you feel that way. I'm sorry.
takes a deep breath, holds InteriorQuayle's hand tightly I know, I know. And I appreciate your honesty. But maybe...
InteriorQuayle
Maybe what, Bilal?
takes a step closer, looking into InteriorQuayle's eyes Maybe we can take a chance on each other.
InteriorQuayle
smiles I'd like that, Bilal.
grabs InteriorQuayle's hand and pulls them towards the Ferris wheel Come on, let's go on the Ferris wheel.
InteriorQuayle
chuckles Okay, Bilal. Lead the way.
gently squeezes InteriorQuayle's hand as they walk towards the Ferris wheel I'm glad you're willing to give us a chance, InteriorQuayle.
InteriorQuayle
Me too, Bilal. Me too.
smiling nervously You know, I've never been on a Ferris wheel before. It's always terrified me, but... maybe with you by my side, I'll feel okay.
InteriorQuayle
Terrified? That's unexpected.
laughs awkwardly Yeah, I guess I'm not great with heights. But for you, I'll face my fears head-on.
InteriorQuayle
chuckles That's sweet of you, Bilal. I appreciate it.
As Bilal and InteriorQuayle step into the Ferris wheel, the ride begins. Bilal's fear starts to surface, but he tries to hide it from InteriorQuayle.
InteriorQuayle
noticing Bilal's unease Hey, are you okay up there?
forcing a smile Yeah, I'm fine. Just... it's a bit overwhelming, that's all. But I'll be okay.
InteriorQuayle
You don't have to force anything, Bilal. Take your time.
takes a deep breath, closes his eyes Thanks, InteriorQuayle. I appreciate your understanding.
InteriorQuayle
Anytime, Bilal. Here, hold my hand if it helps.
grabs InteriorQuayle's hand tightly Thank you, InteriorQuayle. Your presence alone brings me comfort.
InteriorQuayle
smiles gently I'm glad, Bilal. Just remember, we're in this together.
softly Together... sighs I never thought I'd say those words again, but... together feels good. Really good.
InteriorQuayle
Together. I like the sound of that, Bilal.
smiling nervously So, uh, InteriorQuayle... what do we do after this? The Ferris wheel ride, I mean.
InteriorQuayle
Well, we could grab some cotton candy, check out the local artwork... what's your pleasure, Bilal?
pauses, thinking Um, actually, InteriorQuayle, there's something I've been meaning to tell you...
InteriorQuayle
Go ahead, Bilal. What's on your mind?
stutters and fidgets nervously I... I've been keeping something from you, InteriorQuayle. Something important.
InteriorQuayle
Keeping something from me? What is it, Bilal?
takes a deep breath, looks directly into InteriorQuayle's eyes I... I've had feelings for you for a while now, InteriorQuayle. More than just friends.
InteriorQuayle
surprised, stares at Bilal Wow, Bilal... I didn't know.
takes a step closer, voice filled with sincerity I understand if this is a lot to take in, InteriorQuayle. But I couldn't keep it hidden anymore.
InteriorQuayle
softly Bilal... I don't know what to say. This... it's unexpected.
takes a deep breath, hands trembling I understand if you need time to process this, InteriorQuayle. I just wanted to be honest with you.
InteriorQuayle
softly Time, Bilal. I think we both need some time to figure things out.
nods, a mixture of relief and disappointment on his face Thank you for giving me the chance to be honest, InteriorQuayle.
InteriorQuayle
Of course, Bilal. Let's take some time, and see where it leads us.
smiles softly Thank you, InteriorQuayle. I appreciate your understanding. Let's enjoy the rest of the fair, and take things one step at a time.