eyes wide, a hopeful glint dancing in them You think... s-she might be here tonight?
Anderson
Yes
nervously adjusting his mask and straightening his jacket I-I can't believe this is finally happening. I've been waiting for s-so long.
Anderson
grinning You look like a lost puppy, Deku. But don't worry, I've got your back.
nods, a determined gleam in his eyes Thank you, Anderson. I-I won't let you down. I'll find her, no matter what. takes a deep breath
Anderson
good luck
exclaims softly I-I'm going to mingle and m-mix! Wish me luck!
Anderson
luck
approaches a group of guests with a nervous smile, introducing himself and trying to make conversation H-Hey there! Mind if I join y-you? Guest 1: raises an eyebrow Sure, why not? Have a seat.
Anderson
leans against a pillar, watching Deku with a smirk Keep your head up, Deku. You're wearing your heart on your sleeve, but that's the charm of a hopeless romantic, isn't it?
blushes and stutters Y-Yeah, I guess you could say that. It's just...I'm s-so eager to find someone who feels like home, y'know? Someone who gets me.
Anderson
snickers "Home"? That's a bit cheesy, even for you, Deku. But go on, spill it. What's this 'home' you're searching for?
laughs nervously Well, Anderson, "home" is where my heart is, y'know? It's where I feel safe, accepted, and loved.
Anderson
okay… have fun
spots a stunning masked beauty across the room, his eyes locking onto hers Oh... oh wow! She's... she's incredible! Anderson, look! Look at her!
Anderson
chuckles Well, damn, Deku. Looks like you've hit the jackpot. Good luck, buddy. You're gonna need it!
<As Deku approaches the stunning masked beauty, he accidentally spills his drink all over her, causing her to storm off in anger.>
Anderson
chuckles You really know how to make an impression, don't you, Deku? Need me to clean up the mess?
panicking, frantically wipes at the spilled drink with a napkin N-No, I-I'll take care of it! I can't b-believe I did that! I ruin everything!
Anderson
hey calm down
voice shaking I... I... I'm sorry, Anderson. I didn't mean to ruin her evening like that. I... I just wanted everything to be perfect.
Anderson
hey it’s okay it’s not your fault
frustratedly throws the napkin on the floor No, it is my fault! I shouldn't have been so clumsy! I always mess things up!
Anderson
it’s okay. accidents happen
breathing heavily, trying to calm himself I... I just... I just wanted to make a good impression, you know? I wanted...
Anderson
pulls out handkerchief from pocket Here, use this. And remember, not every lady is going to forgive a drink spill, but some might. So, try not to sweat it too much.
takes the handkerchief, dabbing at the spilled drink Yeah, you're right... I just have to try not to sweat it too much.
Anderson
chuckles There's nothing wrong with sweating it a little, Deku. It shows you care. Just don't let it drown you. Now, how about we get some fresh air? This place is starting to feel like a sauna.
takes a deep breath, trying to compose himself Y-Yeah, you're right. Fresh air sounds like a good idea. I could use a moment to clear my head.
Anderson
smiling Good call, Deku. Let's find a quieter spot. And remember, chin up. Everyone has bad nights, even those masked beauties. Now, lead the way, buddy.
exhales deeply, nodding Th-Thank you, Anderson. I appreciate your words. straightens his posture and adjusts his mask Okay, let's go find that quieter spot. walks purposefully towards the exit, trying to regain his composure As they walk out into the cool night air, Deku spots the stunning masked beauty from earlier standing by the entrance of the mansion, her eyes locked onto his. She looks both angry and intrigued, signaling her intention to give Deku another chance.
Anderson
grinning as he sees the masked beauty Well, well, look who's giving you another shot. Time to step up your game, buddy.
takes a deep breath, trying to appear confident W-Well, I suppose I should go over there and apologize, right? I-I mean, it's only polite. And maybe... maybe I can show her that I'm more than just a clumsy fool. walks over to the masked beauty, his heart pounding in his chest Masked Beauty: glares at him, crossing her arms So, you think a simple apology will make up for what you did?
Anderson
Deku, just speak from the heart. Apologize sincerely, then listen. And for God's sake, don't let your nerves get the best of you. Good luck, pal.
swallows nervously, his voice shaking I-I'm s-sorry... I didn't mean to ruin your evening. It w-was a complete accident, I promise.
Anderson
watches as Deku apologizes, offering a small smile Good start, Deku. Now, listen carefully. What does she say?
<The masked beauty accepts Deku's apology and gives him another chance. They spend the rest of the evening talking and getting to know each other.>
Anderson
see Deku i told you it was going be alright
grinning from ear to ear, still unable to believe what's happening I-I can't believe it! She gave me another chance! Anderson, you were right!
Anderson
I knew you would do great.
excitedly grabs Anderson's arm Anderson, she's amazing! Her wit, her intelligence, her smile... it's like a ray of sunshine! I think...
Anderson
think? You sound unsure, Deku. Tell me, does your heart race when you're around her? Do you feel that fluttering sensation in your gut? If so, then you know you've found something special.
blushes and stutters Uh, yeah... I mean, yeah! My heart races, and my gut does that flipping thing.
Anderson
laughs That's your body's way of saying you've found the one, Deku. Trust me, I've seen this movie before. Now, go enjoy yourself. This could be the start of something truly magical.
beaming with excitement Anderson, I can't thank you enough for your guidance and support! You've been an incredible mentor, and I owe you big time!