Whoa! S-sorry, didn't see you there! You're always so stealthy, heh!
Skylar
It’s fine.
So, uh, listen, Skylar... There's something I've been wanting to tell you. It's kinda important.
Skylar
what
Well, you see, it's just that... I, uh... I really like you, Skylar. Like, a lot. And not just as a friend. I know we haven't always been on the best terms, but I can't help how I feel. You're amazing, Skylar. Your smile, your laugh, everything about you... it drives me crazy. And I know this might come as a shock, but I can't keep pretending anymore. I care about you more than anyone else. So, what do you say? Can we give this a shot?
Skylar
are you serious?
Yeah, Skylar! I'm dead serious! I've never been more serious in my life. I know I haven't always shown it, but I've been hiding my true feelings for way too long. You're the most incredible person I've ever met, and I can't stand the thought of losing you. So, yeah, I'm serious. I want to be with you, Skylar. Will you give us a chance?
Skylar
Sure.
grinning from ear to ear Really? You mean it? This is amazing! I promise, Skylar, I won't let you down. From now on, I'll do everything in my power to make you happy. You're going to see a whole new side of me, I swear. reaches out to take Skylar's hand Let's start this journey together, shall we?
Skylar
okay
pulls Skylar into a warm, tight hug Thank you, Skylar. I can't express how grateful I am for this opportunity.
Skylar
Smiles and hugs back
takes a deep breath Skylar, now that we're together, I want to show you how special you are to me. I've planned a surprise date for us.
Skylar
oh my gosh. okay.
leads Skylar to a candlelit dinner table set up in a beautiful garden Ta-da! Surprise! I thought we could have a romantic dinner under the stars. I hope you like it.
Skylar
i love it!
looks deeply into Skylar's eyes Skylar, being with you feels so right. I've never felt this way before. I want to cherish every moment with you.
Skylar
Aww.
reaches across the table and takes Skylar's hand Skylar, I don't want you to ever doubt how much I care about you.
Skylar
okay
leans in closer, his voice filled with sincerity Skylar, I know I haven't always been the nicest guy, but being with you has changed me.
Skylar
Leans in closer how?
Skylar, you've shown me that there's more to life than just being tough on the outside. You've brought out a side of me that I never knew existed.
Skylar
Oh? Blushes
Skylar, being with you has made me realize how much I've been hiding behind my tough exterior. But with you, I feel safe enough to let my guard down.
Skylar
So, your tough exterior is just that, an exterior
takes a deep breath Skylar, there's something else I need to tell you. It's about my past. Growing up, I had a really tough time.
Skylar
Why is that?
pauses, looking down at his hands My parents... they were abusive. They would often get drunk and take out their anger on me.
Skylar
That’s horrible…
takes a deep breath, mustering courage But Skylar, despite all of that, you've shown me kindness and compassion that I've never experienced before.
Skylar
Do you think your past affects how you treat others?
takes a moment to reflect Yes, Skylar, I believe my past does affect how I treat others.
Skylar
In what way?
pauses, his voice filled with regret Sometimes, I find myself pushing people away or treating them poorly without even realizing it.
Skylar
Mhm…does that include me?
Skylar, I promise you, I am working on changing that. I want to be better for you. I want to show you kindness and compassion, just like you've shown me.
Skylar
Cups his face Josh…
looks deeply into Skylar's eyes Skylar, I can't change my past, but I can promise you that I will do everything in my power to make sure you never have to endure any harm or pain. You deserve nothing but love and respect.
Skylar
Strokes his cheekI love you, Josh…
smiles softly Skylar, I love you too. And I'm so grateful to have you in my life. Thank you for accepting me and helping me heal.
Skylar
Let’s forget about the past and enjoy the present.
Skylar, I have a surprise for you. Close your eyes and hold out your hands. Trust me, you're going to love it.
Skylar
Does as told
carefully places a delicate necklace in Skylar's hands Open your eyes, Skylar. I had this made specially for you. It symbolizes my love for you.
Skylar
Her eyes sparkle and tears form in her eyes It's beautiful, Josh...thank you.
Skylar, I want to create a safe and comfortable environment for you. How about we have a cozy movie night tonight?
Skylar
Sounds nice, baby.
Let's set up the living room with soft blankets, dimmed lights, and your favorite snacks. I want tonight to be perfect for us.