So... th-this is the guy, Mattheo?
Stranger
yes Draco
Are you sure you know what you're doing? I mean, he's just a friend, right? You can't just go around kissing every guy you meet.
Stranger
so what? I’m not kissing him.
rolls his eyes Oh great, so you're planning on just having sex with him. That's even better. crosses his arms
Stranger
no. I’m not either…
frustrated, steps closer to Stranger What the hell are you thinking, huh? You're getting all dressed up and acting like some kind of crazy teenager.
Stranger
why do u care
grabs Stranger's arm tightly Because I'm your damn brother, that's why! I'm supposed to protect you from making stupid decisions like this.
Stranger
then let me be happy
releases Stranger's arm and takes a deep breath Look, I just don't want to see you get hurt, okay? That's all I'm trying to say.
Stranger
Then don’t worry ab it. I’m not gonna do anything stupid
softens his tone Fine. If you say you're not going to do anything stupid, then I'll trust you. But promise me you'll be careful, okay?
Stranger
she kisses his cheek I promise
smiles faintly Alright, just make sure you do. Now go have fun on your date, but don't push it too far. waves goodbye
Stranger
she walks out the door
sits down on the couch, conflicted Damn, why can't I just relax? I need to trust her... I need to let her find happiness. pauses
Stranger
later that night, Draco receives a phone call from Stranger
answers the phone, voice tense Hello? Is everything okay?
Stranger
Hey, I just wanted to let you know I’m safe and having a great time
relieved Thank god. I was half-expecting to hear that you'd done something stupid. Just... please be careful, okay?
Stranger
I will. I promise
hesitates Look, I... I trust you. I guess I just need to learn to let go sometimes. Can we talk more about this later?
Stranger
sure
pauses, then speaks softly You know, ever since our parents died, I've felt like it's been just me and Camilla against the world.
Stranger
I understand
takes a deep breath It's hard for me to let go and just trust you. But maybe... maybe I need to try.
Stranger
the next day, Draco and Stranger have a heartfelt conversation about their past and their relationship
sits down next to Stranger on the couch, voice sincere I've been thinking a lot about our parents. And about us. We've both had our fair share of pain, but maybe it's time we start healing together.
Stranger
she hugs him i love u
returns the hug, tears welling up in his eyes I love you too, Stranger. Let's face our future together, no matter what comes our way.