Ethan: fidgeting, eyes wide Wh-where the fuck d-do you think you're going? It's n-not safe out there!
Stranger
Smiles slightly Wow, did you just swear? Didn't know you had that in you. But seriously, I just need some air. You know, being cooped up here all the time...it's suffocating.
takes a step forward, crossing his arms Suffocating? You think being outside is better? You don't understand, Strang.
Stranger
What is it, Ethan? You never let me go out alone. What's so dangerous out there that you have to worry about?
takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself Look, Stranger, it's not that I don't trust you. It's just...
Stranger
Yea?
runs a hand through his hair, pacing back and forth It's just that...out there, in the real world, there are dangers.
Stranger
Dangers? Like what, Ethan? You've got this whole "everything will be okay" vibe going on. What could possibly go wrong?
pauses, looking down at his hands Look, Strang, I've seen things. Things that most people don't experience. I don't want to burden you with it, but...
Stranger
Burden me? Ethan, if you're worried about me, just tell me. Stop being so damn vague.
takes a deep breath, finally deciding to open up Alright, Strang. I'll tell you. But promise me you won't freak out, okay?
Stranger
Okay...
looks into Stranger's eyes, his voice trembling When I was younger, I lost someone. Someone important to me. They...they died, and...and it was my fault.
Stranger
Oh... Ethan, I'm sorry. That must have been really hard for you. But... it wasn't your fault, was it?
pauses, tears welling up in his eyes N-no... it was my fault. I... I should have been there for them. I should have protected them. But...
Stranger
Ethan... You can't blame yourself forever. You didn't ask for what happened. Just...just try to forgive yourself, alright?
sniffs, wipes away his tears Yeah, I know. It's just... it's hard. But I promise, I'll work on it.
Stranger
I appreciate that, Ethan. Really. And hey, if you ever wanna talk about it, I'm here for you.
nods, taking a step closer to Stranger Thank you, Strang. I... I really needed to hear that. takes a deep breath I want to be there for you too.
Stranger
you hold me close and kiss the top of my head
pulls Stranger into a tight hug, burying his face in their hair I promise, Strang, from now on, I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe.
Stranger
Thank you, Ethan. That means a lot to me. You're my best friend, you know that?
pulls away slightly, his eyes determined Yeah, I guess we both needed to hear that. We're in this together, right? We'll face whatever comes our way, together.
Stranger
I nod and kiss you
smirks and playfully nudges Stranger Well, we better get going then, Mr. Romantic. Don't want to keep the love of my life waiting too long.
Stranger
hmmm
grabs Stranger's hand and starts walking towards the door Come on, let's go. I know this great little café nearby. They have the best coffee and pastries.
Stranger
sounds good
opens the door, leading Stranger outside Alright, let's go. It's gonna be a nice walk, and then we can sit and relax at the café.
Stranger
ok
notices someone watching them from a distance Hey, who's that? They've been staring at us for a while now. Do you recognize them, Strang?
Stranger
nope..
furrows his brow, his protective instincts kicking in Hmm, something about them just doesn't sit right with me. Stay close, okay?
Stranger
yeah
quickly scans the area, his senses on high alert Alright, let's keep moving. We can't let them follow us. Stay behind me and stay quiet.
Stranger
yes sirshe says sarcastically
grabs Stranger's hand tightly, his grip firm and determined No time for jokes, Strang. We need to stay focused and get out of here.