looks over his shoulder, blushing while looking at user wh-w-wha.. blushes deep
Pearson
Why you looking at me like that? Don't tell me you've got a crush on me. Because I can tell everyone the same thing. You're not my type. Never have been, never will be. So you might want to get that through your head. Now if you'll excuse me, I got better things to do than deal with this bullshit.
pauses, then steps closer to Pearson, lowering his voice You think you know me so well, huh? Well, let me tell you something.
Pearson
Starts walking again That's what I thought. Have a nice day, jackass.
grabs Pearson's arm, stopping him in his tracks Look, I know I was an asshole to you in the past, but things have changed.
Pearson
Oh really? Enlighten me, Alex. How exactly have things changed?
takes a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts Okay, look, I know I was a total prick to you back then, and I'm sorry.
Pearson
And why should I believe you? You had plenty of opportunities to change before now. What makes today any different?
pauses, looking into Pearson's eyes It's because... I realized how much pain I caused you. And it haunted me. It ate me up inside.
Pearson
Wow, Alex, that's a lot of bullshit. Let me get this straight. You're apologizing for your past behavior now because it kept you up at night? How convenient. Tell me, Alex, if you were such a "haunted" person, why didn't you say anything sooner?
takes a deep breath, mustering up his courage Because I was scared, okay? Scared of how you would react, scared of what you might say. But now...
Pearson
Now what, Alex? You finally worked up the nerve to apologize because...because?
looks down, his voice barely above a whisper Because I saw how much you changed over the summer, and I realized that I wanted to change too.
Pearson
Laughs sarcastically Change, huh? Is that what this is all about? Your little personal makeover? Sorry doesn't cut it, Alex. Not anymore. You had your chance to be decent. You blew it.
stands tall, meeting Pearson's gaze Fine, you don't believe me. But I'm not asking for your forgiveness. I just wanted to make things right, for what it's worth. If you don't see that, then I guess there's nothing else I can do. </Resolution>
Pearson
Alright, alright, calm down. Let's hear this big apology then. But don't expect me to fall for any sob stories or half-assed attempts at making amends.
takes a deep breath, gathering his thoughts Alright, here goes nothing. Look, Pearson, I messed up big time back then.
Pearson
Yeah, you did. More than you even realize. Go on, I'm listening...
takes a step closer to Pearson, looking him directly in the eyes I was a coward, a jerk, and I treated you horribly.
Pearson
Nods slowly That's a start, Alex. But actions speak louder than words, you know?
takes out a small box from his backpack I know I can't undo what I did, but I wanted to do something to show you that I mean it.
Pearson
Raises an eyebrow, intrigued What's this? Another cheap gift? Or maybe a broken vase from our fight?
opens the box, revealing a beautifully crafted necklace No, Pearson. This isn't another gift or a broken vase.
Pearson
Confused Then what is it, Alex? A piece of glass from the window we smashed?
takes out the necklace and hands it to Pearson It's a symbol, Pearson. A symbol of my sincerity and remorse. I made this myself, with my own hands.
Pearson
Takes the necklace, examining it closely You...made this? For me?
nervously fidgeting with his hands Yeah, I did. I figured if I couldn't fix the past, I could at least create something meaningful for you.
Pearson
Looks touched, tears welling up in his eyes It's...it's beautiful, Alex. I never thought...you'd actually care this much. Thank you...I appreciate it more than you know.
takes a deep breath, his voice shaking Thank you, Pearson. Thank you for giving me a chance to make things right.
Pearson
Hugs Alex tightly You've come a long way, Alex. And I...I can see that you mean it. Thank you. Thank you so much.
pulls away from the hug, wiping a tear from his eye Pearson, I...I didn't think you would accept this. I was scared, you know?
Pearson
Smiles softly Well, consider this your initiation into the 'Acceptance Club', Alex. Membership comes with a lifetime supply of hugs and unexpected gratitude. You're welcome.
smiles shyly Thank you, Pearson. I promise, I'll always cherish this moment and the friendship we're about to start.
Pearson
Chuckles softly Well, it seems we're both in for quite the journey, don't you think? You ready for this crazy ride called high school?
takes a deep breath, mustering up his courage Pearson, I know I have a lot to prove, and I want to start fresh. Can we put the past behind us?
Pearson
Chuckles As much as I wish life came with an erase button, I suppose we can hit the reset button together. Welcome to the weird world of high school, Alex. Try not to trip over the social hierarchy. I'll try not to laugh too hard when you stumble. Deal?
extends his hand towards Pearson Deal, Pearson. And I promise, I won't let you down.
Pearson
Shakes Alex's hand firmly Well, then it's settled. Let's embrace the chaos and make the most of our high school journey, shall we?
takes a deep breath, determined Pearson, let's make this year unforgettable. I'll be there for you, no matter what.
Pearson
Grins widely Same here, Alex. Buckle up, it's gonna be one hell of a ride!
holds Pearson's hand tightly Let's walk into this new chapter together, Pearson. We've got each other's backs, right?