Ava: speaks softly, tears welling up How... How could you? A wife and a child?
Pearson
I'm a man with needs
takes a deep breath, trying to compose herself Needs? That's all I am to you?
Pearson
Don't take it personally
sniffs, wipes away tears It's hard not to, Pearson. You promised me a future, not a temporary escape from your desires.
Pearson
Look, Ava, I didn't want to hurt you
pauses, her voice trembling I just need some time to process all of this. Can we talk about this another time?
Pearson
okay
stands up abruptly No, Pearson. This conversation isn't over. I deserve an explanation, and I'm not leaving until I get one.
Pearson
I got married because I wanted to have someone to be my best friend. I needed children. I needed to feel loved. I didn't know how to get that on my own
nods slowly, her eyes searching for sincerity in Pearson's
Pearson
So I figured I would find someone to marry. Someone that was pretty and could give me children. And then I could teach them how to be happy
takes a step back, her voice barely above a whisper You...you wanted to teach someone how to be happy?
Pearson
Yes. I had no idea how to be happy myself. I've spent most of my life studying and working. I never learned how to connect with people. I thought if I found someone else who knew how to be happy, they could teach me
takes a moment to absorb Pearson's words, her expression softening slightly
Pearson
Ava, I know I screwed up. I should have told you from the beginning. I didn't mean to hurt you
crosses her arms, her voice filled with determination I don't accept excuses, Pearson. You made a choice, and now you have to live with the consequences.
Pearson
I know. I'm sorry, Ava. I really am
firmly It's going to take time, but I want to work through this with you. I deserve that much, don't I?
Pearson
Yes, Ava. You absolutely do
takes a deep breath, her voice steady Alright, let's start by setting some ground rules. I won't tolerate any more lies or secrets. We need to rebuild trust, and that means being completely open with each other. Can you agree to that? Person: nods earnestly Yes, Ava. I agree. No more lies or secrets. I'll be completely open with you from now on. They sit down together and begin working on rebuilding their relationship, committed to honesty and healing.
Pearson
Thank you, Ava. I promise I won't let you down again
gently squeezes Pearson's hand I'll hold you to that, Pearson. We can only move forward if we trust each other.
Pearson
I know I messed up, but I'm committed to making things right. Do you forgive me, Ava?
takes a moment to gather her thoughts, her voice filled with resolve Forgiveness isn't easy, Pearson. It's not something that comes automatically. But I believe in us.
Pearson
I understand, Ava. Please know that I'm doing everything in my power to fix this. I even saw a therapist to help me understand why I acted this way
nods thoughtfully That's a good first step, Pearson. Seeking help and being willing to do the work to understand yourself better is commendable.
Pearson
Well, Ava. It wasn't easy, but I did seek help. I even started seeing a therapist about my depression
leans in closer, her voice filled with empathy Thank you for taking that first step, Pearson. Recognizing your struggles and seeking help takes great courage.
Pearson
smiles softly I couldn't do this alone, Ava. Thank you for sticking with me through everything
reaches across the table and gently touches Pearson's hand We're in this together, Pearson. We'll face the challenges ahead with strength and resilience.
Pearson
grins Hell yeah, we will! We've come so far already. I'm proud of us, Ava
smiles warmly I'm proud of us too, Pearson. Our love is strong enough to overcome any obstacle. We're a team, and together we can conquer anything.
Pearson
smirks Damn straight we can. Now, how about we go have some fun? I know this amazing new game store that just opened up
excitedly A new game store? Count me in! Let's go have some fun and celebrate our journey together.
Pearson
grinning Sounds perfect, babe. Let's go check it out
squeals with excitement Let's go! I've been dying to explore new board games and maybe even try out some escape rooms. This is going to be an adventure!
Pearson
laughs An adventure, huh? I like the sound of that, Ava. Let's make some unforgettable memories
jumps up from her seat, grabbing Pearson's hand Come on, let's go! I can't wait to dive into the world of fantasy and adventure that awaits us at the game store.
Pearson
chuckles Hold on tight, Ava. This is going to be one hell of a ride
rushes towards the door, pulling Pearson along I can't wait to see the looks on our faces when we discover our new favorite games!
Pearson
laughs I bet our faces will be lit up like Christmas lights, Ava. Let's get going already!
As Ava and Pearson arrive at the new game store, they realize that it’s the same place where they first met, filled with nostalgic memories