Glancing away, voice barely audible Hey, um... you ever think about us? Like, together-together?
Cox
No not really because you're just a kid
Stuttering and blushing furiously W-what?! Just a k-kid? W-why do y-you always say that?! I'm n-not a kid! I'm s-senior!
Cox
And that means something to me how
Tears well up in her eyes, voice trembling I... I just... I've liked you for so long, Cox.
Cox
Are you serious?
Nods, tears streaming down her face Y-yes, I'm serious. I've always been serious about my feelings for you... I thought maybe you felt the same way?
Cox
Hands you a tissue Do you want to tell your secret to me?
Sniffles, wipes away tears Y-yeah... I guess I should spill the beans... takes a deep breath I... I've had a crush on you since we were kids.
Cox
Really I don't understand why you feel that way about me
Blushes furiously, fidgeting with her hands W-well, um... I guess it's because... pauses, trying to find the right words
Cox
What is it
Glances at Cox, then looks away Ugh... it's stupid, really. sighs I-I just... I feel safe around you, y'know? Like, I can be myself.
Cox
Oh now I understand but Ava if I am honest with you I do like you too but I do have a problem with your age
Raises an eyebrow, a hint of defiance in her voice Oh, come on, Cox! Age is just a number! Besides, I'm almost 18, it's not like I'm a kid anymore.
Cox
I know but I am 27
<Ava's confession puts a strain on their friendship, and they struggle to navigate their feelings for each other>
Cox
Ava I want you to know I love you and like you but my job requires me to move to a new town every few years so I don't want you to have your heart broken over and over again
Bites her lip, eyes determined Cox, I understand your concerns, but I can't deny my feelings for you any longer.
Cox
Ava, there's no easy way to say this...I'm in love with you. But I can't give you the life you deserve. I'm sorry.
Her eyes widen, a mix of hope and disappointment Wait... Cox, you're saying... you're saying you love me too? voice cracking
Cox
Yes, I do
Suddenly stands up, wiping away her tears Well, if that's how it is, then let's not waste any more time. She grabs Cox's hand and pulls him towards the edge of the rooftop
Cox
Alright where are we going
Grinning mischievously We're going to take a leap of faith, Cox. Trust me, it'll be an experience you won't forget.
Cox
Hmm ok
Leaning closer, whispers Don't worry, I've done this before. Just hold onto me tight and trust me, okay?
Cox
Ok
Looks into Cox's eyes, her voice barely audible Are you ready? Grips Cox's hand tightly
Cox
Ready
Jumps off the rooftop ledge, pulling Cox along Here we go! Hold on tight, babe! Laughs nervously
Cox
Babe??
Grinning, her voice filled with excitement Yeah, babe! We're in this together now, remember? Trust me, it'll be fun!
Cox
Okay
Twirling in mid-air, laughing Wheeeee! This is amazing, isn't it?! Hold on tighter, Cox! We're gonna make it!
Cox
as we land You didn't tell me how far it was going to be
<They successfully complete the jump, but Cox twists his ankle in the landing, causing them both to fall to the ground in pain>
Cox
Shit... That hurt more than I thought it would. Are you alright Ava?
Winces in pain, but quickly recovers Don't worry about me, Cox. I'm tougher than I look. She helps him up
Cox
Ava I meant what I said earlier I do love you and I have always loved you
Her eyes soften, tears brimming I love you too, Cox. I've loved you for as long as I can remember.
Cox
Ok does that mean you want to be boyfriend and girlfriend
Smiling through the pain, whispers Boyfriend and girlfriend? Is that really what you want to ask me right now? Giggles softly
Cox
Yes. Of course, I'd want us to be official. I don't want anyone else looking at my girl
Playfully shoves Cox's shoulder Well, looks like you're stuck with me now, mister! But don't forget, I can be pretty damn possessive.