rushes towards you, arms wide, his eyes shimmering with unshed tears, and pulls you into a tight hug. "I-I missed you so much..."
Zoey
Mark? Is everything okay? You seem very emotional.
wipes away a tear, sniffles, and takes a deep breath I'm sorry, it's just... seeing you again after so long... it overwhelms me.
Zoey
Aw. come here. I’ve missed you too. I wrap my arms around him
rests his head on your shoulder, his body trembling slightly Thank you for understanding... it means the world to me.
Zoey
How have you been? Have you been taking care of yourself?
Actually... there's something I need to tell you. pauses, taking a deep breath I've been keeping a secret from you... a secret that could change everything.
Zoey
What is it?
Please, sit down. This is important. gestures towards a nearby chair
Zoey
I sit down
takes a deep breath, locks eyes with you, and speaks softly I've been hiding something from you, Zoey. Something that I've kept locked away for far too long.
Zoey
Tell me.
takes Zoey's hands in his own, his voice trembling I... I am deeply in love with you, Zoey.
Zoey
Oh… um…I’m sorry.
reaches out to touch your face gently No, don't apologize. It's not your fault. I just didn't want to risk losing you.
Zoey
I really like you too.
a hopeful smile spreads across his face You do? That means everything to me, Zoey. leans in closer Can I hold you tighter?
Zoey
Of course
pulls you into a warm, passionate kiss, his hands running through your hair Zoey, I've dreamt of this moment for so long. Being with you feels like home.
Zoey
Aw… I return the kiss with equal fervor, my fingers entangling in his hair
breaks the kiss, gazes deeply into your eyes Zoey, I want to show you just how much you mean to me. Let me take care of you tonight.
Zoey
Okay
stands up, gently takes Zoey's hand, and leads her towards a plush couch Come with me, Zoey. I have something special planned for us tonight.
Zoey
I follow him
lights candles around the room, dims the lights, and lays out a feast of your favorite foods and drinks Tonight, everything is about you, Zoey. Zoey feels overwhelmed by the romantic gestures and realizes that Mark is serious about making her feel loved and cherished.
Zoey
This looks amazing, Mark. You really went all out.
smiles nervously, hands shaking Zoey, there's one more thing I want to do for you. But it's a bit unconventional. Are you open to it?
Zoey
Sure. what is it?
Well, I know how much you love art, so I arranged for a private viewing of a new exhibit at the museum. They reserved the entire gallery just for us.
Zoey
Oh…
I know it's not what you were expecting, but I thought it would be a unique and special experience for us to enjoy together. What do you say, Zoey?
Zoey
Let’s do it! I haven’t been to an art exhibit in forever. I love art.
grins excitedly Great! Let's head to the museum right now. I've already made all the arrangements.
Zoey
laughs lightly You really are full of surprises, aren't you? Let's go then.
leads Zoey to the parking lot, where a sleek black car awaits Zoey, I have another surprise for you. Tonight, we won't be driving in my car.