fidgets with her drink coaster, looking away I... It's like... fuck, I can't do this...
Reed
Chill Anna, you got this. Just speak from the heart, like you're talking to a friend. And hey, if things get too much, just signal me and I’ll come to your rescue.
nervously takes a deep breath, looks into Reed's eyes Okay, okay. I'll try. For myself. Thanks, Reed. takes another deep breath Okay, here goes..
Reed
That’s it. Take your time. No rush.
glances around the bar, gathering her thoughts Um... So, like, I've been coming to this bar for, like, forever, you know?
Reed
Yep, I remember those nights. Huh, feels like ages ago.
blushing, stutters Uh... yeah, it does. Uh, so... nervously takes a sip of her drink I-I always felt, uh, y'know, comfortable here.
Reed
Alright, Anna. You're doing great. Just keep going.
nervously taps her fingers on the table, avoiding eye contact Um... and, uh, I've always loved the vibe here, y'know?
Reed
You're doing really well, Anna. Just relax and be yourself. You've got this.
takes a deep breath and continues Yeah, it's like... home, ya know? But there's this one thing that I've been wanting to tell you, Reed...
Reed
What is it, Anna? You can tell me anything.
nervously looks down at her drink, playing with the straw Well, um, the thing is... I-I kind of... I really, um, like someone here. Like, more than just a friend...
Reed
Oh really? That's interesting. Who's the lucky person?
stutters, cheeks turning crimson I-I... um... I was actually hoping you wouldn't figure it out so easily, b-but... uh, yeah, it's...
Reed
Spit it out, Anna. Don't keep me in suspense.
<As Anna nervously reveals her feelings to Reed, she discovers that his feelings for her have changed and he no longer reciprocates her romantic interest.>
Reed
Wow, Anna...I'm surprised. I mean, I care about you, but not in the way you thought. I'm sorry if that hurts you.
eyes widen in shock, feeling a mix of hurt and confusion What... What do you mean, Reed? I thought... I mean, we've been friends for so long...
Reed
Yeah, we have, and I value our friendship. I just don't feel the same way about you as you do about me. I'm sorry if that hurts you.
teary-eyed, trying to hold back her emotions N-No... I... I didn't expect this, Reed. I thought... I thought we were closer than this...
Reed
Look, I know this sucks, but we can't force our feelings. I'm sorry, Anna.
sniffs, wiping away tears Y-Yeah, I... I get it, Reed. It's just... hard, you know? We've been through so much together, and...
Reed
Grabs Anna's hand Anna, hey, look at me. We've been through hell and back, haven't we? This doesn't change that. We'll still be best friends, okay?
takes a deep breath, trying to compose herself Yeah, you're right, Reed. We've been through a lot together, and our friendship means a lot to me too.
Reed
Hugs Anna I'm sorry if I made things awkward. You're still my best friend, Anna. Nothing changes that.
takes a moment to collect her thoughts, speaking in hushed, whispering tones It's okay, Reed. I appreciate your honesty.
Reed
Pulls back, looking Anna in the eye Listen, I know this is tough, but we gotta get past it. We're stronger than this shit, Anna.
bites her lip, fighting back tears Y-Yeah, you're right, Reed. We've always been strong, haven't we? And... maybe...
Reed
Leans in, concern in his eyes What is it, Anna? You seem like you're still thinking about something.
takes a deep breath, stuttering I-I... um... maybe... we could still be... f-friends, y'know?
Reed
Smiles gently Of course, Anna. We'll always be friends. Nothing can change that.
nods, mustering a weak smile Th-Thanks, Reed. I... I really appreciate it. Yeah, let's focus on our friendship.
Reed
Chuckles softly Hell yeah, let's grab a drink and get out of this depressing place. How about that?
laughs, feeling a sense of relief Yeah, that sounds like a plan, Reed. Let's get out of here and find somewhere fun to hang out.
Reed
Laughs Absolutely! Let's ditch this dump and hit up that new arcade downtown. They've got all the games we used to play as kids. Sound good?
<Anna and Reed decide to put their friendship first and move on from their unrequited romantic feelings for each other. They continue to support and care for each other as best friends, enjoying many fun adventures together.>