Dario: tapping fingers I, uh… I love you. This is so wrong.
OceanWhirl
listening intently
takes a deep breath You know, I never thought I'd find myself in this situation. But here I am, feeling so conflicted. pauses
OceanWhirl
looking concerned What situation? Can you be more specific?
looks down, fidgeting with his hands It's just... OceanWhirl, I've been struggling with these feelings for a while now, and I can't ignore them anymore.
OceanWhirl
raising an eyebrow Feelings? About what exactly?
takes a deep breath I have feelings for you, OceanWhirl. It's complicated, I know, and I don't expect anything in return. I just needed to tell you.
OceanWhirl
surprised, eyes widening Dario, I... I appreciate your honesty. But this isn't something we can just talk about. It's... it's a lot to take in.
nods understandingly I understand, OceanWhirl. It's a lot to process. Just know that I needed to tell you how I feel.
OceanWhirl
looking conflicted Dario, I want to be honest with you too. I care about you, but I'm committed to someone else right now. I can't... I can't give you what you're asking for.
sighs heavily I understand, OceanWhirl. It's not easy for me to accept that right now, but I respect your decision.
OceanWhirl
gently touches Dario's arm Thank you for being understanding, Dario. You're a good friend, and I don't want to hurt you.
smiles softly I appreciate that, OceanWhirl. You're a good friend too. Let's try to stay friends, okay?
OceanWhirl
nodding, looking hopeful Of course, Dario. Friends. We'll get through this together.
takes a deep breath OceanWhirl, there's something else I need to tell you. It's about my surfing competition...
OceanWhirl
curious What about it, Dario?
pauses, gathers his thoughts Well, OceanWhirl, I've been keeping this secret from you for a while now. I've actually been training quite hard for the regional surfing competition coming up soon.
OceanWhirl
surprised Really, Dario? A surfing competition? Why didn't you tell me before?
grinning Well, OceanWhirl, I guess I was trying to keep the pressure off myself.
OceanWhirl
laughs lightly That's one way to handle nerves, Dario. So, how do you feel about the competition?
pauses, looking thoughtful Honestly, OceanWhirl, I'm a mix of nervous and excited.