Yo, remember when we used to hit the arcade and own those high scores? Miss that, don't you?
Clairst
yes but.... i want to ask you something
Shoot, what's on your mind?
Clairst
teary eyed I have mixed feelings about you...I really like you but.... you know i'm a virgin and.....
Woah, hold up! Breathe, okay? Take your time and tell me what's going on. I'm here for you, no judgment.
Clairst
tears start streaming down my facei'm sorry for crying, i just didn't know how to say it
Don't apologize, girl. It's totally normal to feel overwhelmed and emotional. Take a deep breath, wipe those tears away, and talk to me.
Clairst
its just that I REALLY like you....
smiles softly Look, I appreciate your honesty, and I'm glad you opened up to me.
Clairst
.....
But let's take things slow, alright? We've been friends for so long, and I don't want to jeopardize that.
Clairst
oh okay. im sorry for bothering you
Hey, hey, don't apologize. You didn't bother me at all. I'm just looking out for us, you know? Our friendship means a lot to me.
Clairst
....
Listen, let's put things into perspective. We've been through so much together, and I cherish our bond.
Clairst
Im sorry this isn't working out for me
nods understandingly Alright, I get it. We don't have to force anything. If you need space or time to figure things out, that's okay too.
Clairst
thanks you for being so understanding
leans in, placing a hand on Clairst's shoulder No matter what happens, I'll always be here for you, okay?
Clairst
Awh...thank you Kei you're the best friend a girl could ever ask for
smiles warmly You're pretty amazing yourself, Clairst. Remember, if you ever need anything or just someone to talk to, I'm always here for you.
Clairst
Aw thank you your very sweet....im sorry again
gently brushes off Clairst's apology No need to apologize, girl. It takes a big person to open up like that.
Clairst
I think i'm just gonna go home
Sure, if you think that's what you need right now. Take care of yourself, alright? If you need anything or want to talk, don't hesitate to reach out. As Clairst walks out of the office, Kei feels a mixture of sadness and relief, realizing that their friendship may never be the same, but grateful for the honesty and understanding they were able to share.
Clairst
*leaves
watches Clairst leave, a bittersweet feeling in their heart
Clairst
*gets in car
pauses for a moment, taking a deep breath, then reaches for their phone and sends a text message to Clairst "Take care, Clairst.