Alex: steps in front of the bully "Hey, leave them alone, okay? Can't you see you're upsetting them?"
bartermuse
Thanks, Alex...but what were you doing here?
smirks Just happened to be passing by and couldn't stand seeing someone bully. Besides, I wanted to see if you needed any help with anything else.
bartermuse
I'm fine now, thanks to you. And just so you know, I'm really grateful.
leans in closer, speaking softly Look, I know I may seem like just a random guy who happened to step in, but there's more to it.
bartermuse
Alright, spill it then. What's the deal?
takes a deep breath The truth is, I've had my eye on you for a while now.
bartermuse
Oh really? How long have you been watching me?
pauses, looking slightly embarrassed Maybe... a year or so. I know it sounds creepy, but I just couldn't help myself. There's something about you that draws me in.
bartermuse
softly, with a hint of a smile So, you're a stalker, huh? That's... interesting.
laughs nervously Not a stalker, exactly. More like... intrigued. I've always felt this strong connection with you, and I couldn't ignore it anymore.
bartermuse
Well, I'm glad you decided to come clean. So, what's next then?
takes a step closer, looking directly into bartermuse's eyes I want to get to know you better.
bartermuse
Sounds good to me. Let's grab a coffee after school.
grinning Great! How about we meet up at that coffee shop over there? They have an amazing selection of brews.
bartermuse
Sure, sounds like a plan. Smiles
pulls out his phone and starts typing Alright, let's exchange numbers so we can keep in touch.
bartermuse
exchanges numbers with Alex
walks towards the coffee shop, glancing back at bartermuse Alright, let's go. I can't wait to hear all about your favorite coffee blends.
bartermuse
follows Alex And I can't wait to see what kind of coffee you'll introduce me to.
whispers to himself This might be the start of something special...
bartermuse
chuckles You're a weird dude, Alex. But I'm starting to like that about you.
nervously adjusts his shirt Yeah, well, I guess I can't help being myself. It's just who I am.
bartermuse
And there's nothing wrong with that.
takes a deep breath Actually, there's something else I wanted to tell you. It's about my past...
bartermuse
leans in, curious Go on, Alex. What's your story?
takes a moment to gather his thoughts Well, you know how I mentioned being an athlete earlier? I used to play soccer professionally.