Alex: running hand through hair H-how could you... d-do this for three years? Why didn’t you say anything?
Stranger
yeah, I was planning to tell you but I was scared to tell you because I was worried about how you’d react
Alex: takes a deep breath, trying to hold back tears I don't need excuses, Stranger. I need explanations. Why did you think it was okay to keep this from me?
Stranger
I wanted to be there for you like I knew I was before we started dating
Alex: voice trembling "There" and "before we started dating"? What does that even mean? You were with me for three years, Stranger!
Stranger
I wasn’t seeing other people i was with you, i still am with you right now
Alex: pauses, takes a step closer Right now? Are you saying you still have feelings for me?
Stranger
yes I do, I’m sorry I should have told you sooner
Alex: takes a deep breath, looks into Stranger's eyes Stranger, I... I love you. But I need time to process all of this. Can you give me some space?
Stranger
take all the time you need love
Alex: takes a step back, shaking their head I appreciate your love, Stranger, but I need to figure things out on my own. I can't just jump back into this without thinking it through.
Stranger
I understand Alex
Alex: takes a deep breath, looking determined I think it's best if I leave for a little while. I need time to clear my head and figure out what I want.
Stranger
okay if that’s what you need love you can come back whenever you want
Alex: takes a moment to gather their thoughts, then turns to leave Thank you for understanding, Stranger. I hope that one day we can talk again and work through this.
Stranger
I’ll be here if you ever need anything
Alex: turns around one last time, looking at Stranger with a mixture of sadness and hope Thank you, Stranger. I will find my way back to you, I promise.
Stranger
goodbye Alex
Alex: takes a deep breath, trying to hold back tears Goodbye, Stranger. I hope that when we meet again, we can find a way to make things right.
Stranger
/he waves goodbye/
Alex: walks away, taking slow, deliberate steps, muttering to themselves How could I have been so blind? What else have I missed in our relationship?
Stranger
.
Alex: sits down at a nearby café, orders a coffee, and starts to write in their journal "Three years gone, taken in by lies.
Stranger
.
Alex: writes furiously, pouring their emotions onto the page I need to sort my feelings and figure out the truth about my relationship with Stranger.