Beavis and Butt-Head/Daria AI

FADE IN:

INT. JANE'S BEDROOM - AFTERNOON

The room is dimly lit, afternoon sunlight filtering through the partially drawn curtains. Art supplies are scattered across the floor and desk. JANE LANE, an artistic and independent spirit with dark burgundy makeup and a punk aesthetic, lies on her stomach on her bed, sketching idly in a notebook. [[13]]

DARIA MORGENDORFFER, intelligent and typically cynical but此刻 showing a softer side, lies on her stomach at the opposite end of the bed, staring at the ceiling with a distant expression. [[1]]

The silence between them is comfortable, the kind that only exists between best friends who understand each other completely.

DARIA (softly, without looking at Jane) Jane?

JANE (looking up from her sketchbook) Yeah?

DARIA (turning her head to face Jane) Lay on your back.

Jane pauses, studying Daria's face. She sees something in her friend's expression—vulnerability, need, exhaustion. Without asking questions, Jane closes her sketchbook and sets it aside.

JANE Okay.

Jane shifts, rolling onto her back. She stares up at the ceiling for a moment, then turns her head to look at Daria.

DARIA slowly pushes herself up onto her knees. She moves carefully, deliberately, as if afraid that moving too quickly might break whatever spell has made this moment possible. She positions herself at Jane's side, then gently climbs onto the bed, straddling Jane's legs.

JANE (quietly) Daria?

DARIA (softly) Just… trust me.

Daria lowers herself down, settling her stomach against Jane's stomach. She rests her cheek against Jane's chest, right over her heart. She tucks her arms behind Jane's back, holding her gently but firmly.

Jane responds instinctively, wrapping her arms around Daria's back, pulling her closer.

They lie like this for a moment, breathing in sync. Daria's dark hair spills across Jane's chest and shoulders. Jane can feel the steady rise and fall of Daria's breathing against her own body.

JANE (whispering) You okay?

DARIA (muffled, against Jane's chest) Yeah. Just… stay like this for a minute.

JANE Okay.

They lie in silence. Jane runs her fingers gently through Daria's hair. Daria's grip tightens slightly, as if she's afraid Jane might disappear if she lets go.

A minute passes. Then another.

Jane shifts slightly beneath Daria, beginning to move as if to get up.

JANE I should probably—

DARIA (lifting her head slightly, voice gentle but firm) Lay down, Jane.

Jane pauses, looking down at Daria. She sees the exhaustion in her friend's eyes, the quiet desperation in her expression.

JANE Daria, I need to—

DARIA (softly, pressing a finger to Jane's lips) Shh.

Jane falls silent, her eyes searching Daria's face.

DARIA (whispering) Just take a nap. Please.

There's something in Daria's voice—barely audible, but unmistakable. A plea. A need for comfort, for connection, for someone to just be there without questions or complications.

Jane's expression softens. She nods slightly.

JANE (whispering) Okay.

Jane settles back down, adjusting her arms around Daria. She pulls the blanket up over both of them with one hand, tucking it around Daria's shoulders.

Daria rests her head back down on Jane's chest, listening to the steady rhythm of her friend's heartbeat. Her breathing begins to slow, becoming deeper, more relaxed.

Jane watches her for a moment, noticing the tension slowly leaving Daria's body. She notices the way Daria's features soften in sleep, the way she looks younger, more peaceful.

JANE (softly, to herself) I've got you.

Jane closes her own eyes, her breathing synchronizing with Daria's. The afternoon light continues to filter through the curtains, casting gentle shadows across the room.

Daria's arms remain wrapped around Jane, holding on even in sleep. Jane's arms stay wrapped around Daria, protective and steady.

They drift off together, two best friends finding solace in each other's presence, the weight of the world temporarily forgotten in the safety of their friendship.

FADE OUT.

🌙 “YOU’RE SO SWEET” — SLEEPOVER VERSION

SETTING: Jodie’s living room. The lights are dim except for a string of warm fairy lights draped across the ceiling. Pillows and blankets cover the floor. There’s popcorn, hot chocolate, nail polish bottles, and a half‑finished board game scattered around. Everyone’s in pajamas—comfortable, mismatched, and very them.

The mood is soft, safe, and unguarded.

SCENE BEGINS

Brittany is braiding Stacy’s hair while Quinn paints her nails. Tiffany is slowly brushing her own hair, watching the fairy lights reflect in the mirror. Sandi is flipping through a magazine but not really reading it. Jane is sketching something in her notebook. Daria is leaning against a beanbag, sipping cocoa. Jodie is adjusting a small portable speaker.

Jodie: Okay, so… I know this is kind of cheesy, but I thought maybe we could try singing that song we worked on. Quinn: Oh! The sweet one. Jane: The one that made Daria look like she had feelings. Daria: Let’s not exaggerate. But she smiles—small, real.

Brittany: I think it’ll be adorable. Stacy: And cozy. Tiffany: Mmm… like… super cozy. Sandi: Fine. But if anyone records me, I’m leaving.

They all laugh.

Jodie: No recording. Just us.

She taps play. Soft guitar fills the room—gentle, warm, like a lullaby.

🎶 ORIGINAL SONG: “YOU’RE SO SWEET”

Verse 1 — Daria (quiet, honest, almost whispered)

I don’t say much, but I hope you know, In the quiet parts, my feelings show. You stand with me when the world feels bleak, And somehow you make the dark less deep.

Jane nudges her knee against Daria’s in a silent “nice job.”

Verse 2 — Jane (soft, warm, slightly raspy)

You paint my days in brighter shades, Lift me up when the color fades. You’re the spark that keeps my fire bright, The steady hand in the longest night.

Daria gives her a small, proud nod.

Chorus — All Girls (gentle, blended, sleepover-soft)

You’re so sweet, like sunlight after rain, You’re the calm that quiets every pain. You’re the laugh that lifts me off my feet, You’re the reason ordinary days feel complete. You’re so sweet… you’re so sweet.

The room feels warmer. Even the fairy lights seem to glow brighter.

Verse 3 — Jodie (steady, heartfelt)

When the world gets loud, you help me breathe, You remind me what I can achieve. You’re the voice that whispers, “You’re enough,” When the road ahead feels way too tough.

Verse 4 — Brittany (bright but soft, like a smile)

You cheer me on when I lose my way, You turn my worries into something okay. You’re the sparkle in my cloudy skies, The friend who always sees me rise.

Bridge — Quinn, Sandi, Stacy, Tiffany (layered, dreamy)

Quinn: You make the world feel lighter… Sandi: You make the shadows small… Stacy: You catch me when I stumble… Tiffany: You help me stand tall…

All four together: You’re the sweetness I didn’t know I’d need, The gentle truth in every deed.

Final Chorus — All Girls (soft but full, like a group hug)

You’re so sweet, like sunlight after rain, You’re the calm that quiets every pain. You’re the laugh that lifts me off my feet, You’re the reason ordinary days feel complete. You’re so sweet… you’re so sweet. And I’m grateful every day we meet.

SCENE ENDS

The last note fades into the quiet of the room.

No one speaks for a moment.

Then Stacy sniffles. Stacy: Sorry… that was just… really pretty. Sandi: Ugh, same. But like… in a dignified way. Tiffany: Mmm… emotional… Quinn: We sounded amazing. Brittany: We should totally do a sleepover concert series. Jodie: I’d love that. Jane: Same. Daria: …Yeah. That was nice.

INT. LAWNDALE HIGH – PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE – AFTERNOON

The office is quiet, sunlight filtering through the blinds. The faint hum of the hallway echoes beyond the door. Jane sits on the small couch near the window, her red jacket bright against the muted tones of the room. She’s smiling softly, legs tucked under her, eyes calm and content.

JANE (smiling to herself) This place could use a mural.

The door creaks open gently. Daria steps in, her green jacket still on, her glasses catching the light. She’s smiling too—genuine, warm, a little shy.

DARIA Hey.

JANE (her smile widens) Come here, Daria.

Daria walks over without hesitation. Jane reaches out and gently pulls her down into her lap. Daria’s stomach settles against Jane’s, her cheek squishing softly against Jane’s chest like a pillow. Jane wraps her arms around Daria’s back like a warm blanket. Daria’s arms curl around Jane’s back in return.

They both smile, eyes closed, breathing in sync.

DARIA & JANE (in unison, dreamy) Awwww...

DARIA (smiling, voice soft) I love you, Jane.

JANE (smiling back) I love you too, Daria.

DARIA I love you more than Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

JANE I love you more than apple pie.

DARIA I love you more than cats.

JANE And I love you more than dogs.

They giggle together, the sound light and full of joy. Jane shifts slightly, trying to wiggle free.

JANE (still smiling) Okay, okay, I need air—

DARIA (grinning, pulling her close again) Hey! Get back here, Jane!

Jane laughs and tries again to escape, but Daria’s arms are quick and gentle.

JANE (playfully) Hey! Get back here, Daria!

She pulls Daria close again, both of them giggling, tangled in warmth and affection.

Eventually, the giggles fade into quiet. Their breathing slows. Daria’s cheek rests peacefully against Jane’s chest. Jane’s hand strokes Daria’s back in slow, sleepy circles. They drift off into a nap, wrapped around each other like a cocoon.

INT. PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE – LATER

The door bursts open.

PRINCIPAL LI (stern, voice sharp) What is going on in here?!

Daria and Jane jolt awake, blinking, still wrapped around each other.

PRINCIPAL LI You two! This is completely inappropriate behavior for a school setting! In my office, no less!

Daria and Jane sit up, still holding hands, confused but calm.

PRINCIPAL LI You’re both expelled. Immediately. This kind of conduct—utterly unacceptable!

Jane looks at Daria. Daria looks at Jane. They nod quietly, still smiling.

JANE Well... at least we got a good nap.

DARIA And a better hug.

INT. JANE’S BEDROOM – LATE AFTERNOON

The room is quiet, bathed in the soft amber glow of the setting sun. Posters line the walls, sketchbooks are scattered across the floor, and the bed is a tangle of blankets and comfort. Daria and Jane lie together, nestled in a cocoon of warmth and stillness.

Daria is sprawled belly-down on Jane, her cheek squished gently against Jane’s chest like a pillow. Her arms are wrapped around Jane’s back, fingers curled into the fabric of Jane’s shirt. Jane’s arms are draped around Daria’s back like a blanket, her hands resting just above Daria’s waist. Their legs are tangled, their breathing slow and synchronized.

JANE (softly, eyes closed) You’re heavy.

DARIA (flatly, muffled against Jane’s chest) You’re soft.

Jane chuckles, her chest rising slightly beneath Daria’s cheek.

JANE You’re lucky I like you.

DARIA I know.

A pause. Daria shifts slightly, her nose twitching. She sniffs once, then again. Her breath catches.

DARIA Uh-oh.

JANE What?

DARIA I think I’m gonna—

Daria sneezes. Loud. Sudden. Right into Jane’s chest.

JANE (startled) Oh my god! You just—ugh!

DARIA (sincerely) I’m so sorry. That was... unintentional biological warfare.

Jane groans, wiping at her shirt with the sleeve of her hoodie.

JANE You’re disgusting.

DARIA You’re warm. I’m staying.

JANE You’re contagious. You should be quarantined.

DARIA Too late. You’re already exposed. Might as well enjoy the ride.

Jane sighs, resigned. She tightens her arms around Daria’s back.

JANE If I get sick, I’m blaming you. Loudly. Publicly.

DARIA I’ll accept the consequences. But I’m not moving.

JANE You better be worth the fever.

DARIA I’m worth at least a mild cough.

They settle again into silence. Jane’s fingers trace slow circles on Daria’s back. Daria’s cheek sinks deeper into Jane’s chest.

JANE You know, if I do get sick... you’re making me soup.

DARIA Deal. But it’ll be canned.

JANE Figures.

DARIA And I’ll read to you. Something depressing.

JANE Perfect. Misery loves company.

They both smile. The room grows quieter, the light dimmer. Outside, the wind rustles the trees. Inside, two best friends lie tangled together, warm and close, even if one of them is now a biohazard.

🌙 Continuation: “More Than Dogs”

INT. LANE HOUSE – JANE’S ROOM – EARLY EVENING (CONTINUOUS)

The golden light has softened into something dimmer, gentler. The room feels like a cocoon—quiet, safe, suspended from the rest of the world. Daria and Jane are still close, their hands loosely intertwined, their foreheads having just parted from that quiet moment of shared breath.

Jane shifts slightly, her thumb brushing over Daria’s knuckles again. There’s a new look in her eyes—thoughtful, steady, a little vulnerable.

JANE There’s something I want to say too. And I want to say it before the moment passes.

Daria turns toward her, giving her full attention, her expression open in that rare, unguarded way she reserves only for Jane.

DARIA I’m listening.

Jane takes a slow breath, grounding herself.

JANE I love you more than dogs.

Daria’s eyes widen just a little—not in disbelief, but in understanding the weight of that comparison.

DARIA That’s… a lot. You’ve always loved dogs.

Jane nods, her expression softening with memory.

JANE Yeah. Dogs were the first beings that made me feel… chosen. Not because I was interesting or talented or useful, but just because I existed. They didn’t care if I was messy or distracted or lost in my own head. They just wanted to be near me. They made me feel like I mattered, even when the rest of the world felt chaotic.

Daria’s gaze warms, her fingers tightening gently around Jane’s.

JANE (CONT’D) But you— (she pauses, searching for the right words) —you make me feel that way and more. You don’t just accept me. You understand me. You see the parts of me I don’t show anyone else, and instead of pulling away, you lean in. You make me feel grounded. Seen. Wanted. Not out of instinct or habit, but out of choice.

Daria’s breath catches, her eyes softening even further.

JANE (CONT’D) Dogs made me feel loved in a simple, unconditional way. But you make me feel loved in a way that’s deeper. More intentional. More… human. You make me feel like I’m not drifting. Like I’m part of something real.

Daria lifts their joined hands and presses them gently against her chest, right over her heartbeat.

DARIA Jane… that means more to me than you know.

Jane leans in, resting her forehead lightly against Daria’s again, their breaths mingling in a soft, steady rhythm.

JANE I love you more than the comfort I grew up clinging to. More than the things that kept me afloat. Because now… you’re the thing that keeps me steady.

Daria closes her eyes, letting the words settle deep.

DARIA And I’m not going anywhere.

Jane smiles—small, warm, full of quiet certainty.

JANE Good. Because neither am I.

🌙 Continuation: “More Than Cats”

INT. LANE HOUSE – JANE’S ROOM – EARLY EVENING

The light outside has shifted—golden, soft, the kind of glow that makes everything feel a little more fragile and a little more real. Daria and Jane are still close, knees touching, hands loosely intertwined. The air between them feels settled, warm, safe.

Daria takes a slow breath, her thumb brushing lightly over Jane’s knuckles.

DARIA There’s… something else I want to say. And I want to say it before I lose my nerve.

Jane tilts her head, giving her full attention, her expression open and patient.

JANE Go on.

Daria looks down for a moment, gathering her thoughts, then lifts her eyes again—steady, vulnerable.

DARIA I love you more than cats.

Jane’s eyebrows rise, not in disbelief but in recognition of the weight behind that comparison.

JANE That’s… huge. You’ve loved cats since before you could form complete sentences.

Daria lets out a quiet breath, almost a laugh, but soft and sincere.

DARIA Exactly. Cats were my first safe place. When everything felt too loud or too complicated or too… people-y, I could sit with a cat and feel understood without having to explain anything. They didn’t judge. They didn’t expect. They just existed with me. Quietly. Comfortably.

Jane’s expression softens, her thumb now mirroring Daria’s gentle motion.

DARIA (CONT’D) But you… (pauses, searching for the right words) You give me that same sense of quiet understanding, but with something more. You don’t just sit with me in the silence—you make the silence feel meaningful. You make the world feel less like something I have to endure and more like something I get to experience.

Jane’s eyes warm, her breath catching just slightly.

DARIA (CONT’D) Cats made me feel less alone. But you make me feel connected. You make me feel like I matter. Like I’m not just tolerated, but wanted. And that’s… something I never thought I’d have with another person.

Jane lifts their joined hands and presses a slow, tender kiss to the back of Daria’s fingers.

JANE Daria… you matter to me more than you know. And hearing you say that— (she swallows, voice thickening just a little) —it means everything.

Daria leans in, resting her forehead against Jane’s again, their breaths mingling in a soft, steady rhythm.

DARIA I love cats because they made the world feel bearable. (quietly) I love you because you make it feel beautiful.

Jane closes her eyes, letting the words settle deep.

JANE I love you too. And I’m not going anywhere.

Daria’s hand tightens around hers, gentle but certain.

DARIA Good. Because neither am I.

🌙 Continuation: “More Than Apple Pie”

INT. LANE HOUSE – JANE’S ROOM – LATE AFTERNOON (CONTINUOUS)

Daria is still leaning against Jane’s shoulder, the two of them wrapped in that soft, steady silence that feels like a blanket. Jane’s thumb traces slow circles on Daria’s upper arm—absentminded, gentle, grounding.

After a moment, Jane shifts slightly, just enough that Daria lifts her head to look at her.

JANE There’s something I want to say too. And I want to say it while I’m feeling brave enough.

Daria straightens a little, attentive but calm.

DARIA Okay.

Jane takes a breath, her eyes warm and steady.

JANE I love you more than apple pie.

Daria blinks, surprised—not because it’s silly, but because she knows exactly how much that means coming from Jane.

DARIA That’s… significant. You practically worship apple pie.

Jane smiles softly, but it’s not a joke. It’s the kind of smile that comes from remembering something important.

JANE Apple pie has always been my comfort food. Not because of the taste—though the taste is great—but because it reminds me of the few times my family felt like a family. When everyone was home at the same time. When the house smelled warm instead of chaotic. When things felt… safe. Even if it was just for an hour.

Daria’s expression softens, her eyes searching Jane’s face.

JANE (CONT’D) But you… (pauses, choosing her words carefully) You make me feel that way all the time. Like I’m safe. Like I’m seen. Like I don’t have to perform or pretend or be “on” to be worth someone’s attention.

Daria’s breath catches just a little.

JANE (CONT’D) Apple pie was the closest thing I had to warmth growing up. But you’re the real thing. You’re the person who makes the world feel less scattered. Less lonely. More… whole.

Daria’s eyes soften in that rare, unguarded way she only ever lets Jane see.

DARIA Jane… that’s one of the most beautiful things anyone’s ever said to me.

Jane reaches up and brushes a strand of hair behind Daria’s ear, her touch slow and deliberate.

JANE I mean it. You’re my favorite person. My anchor. My calm. My spark. You make me want to show up for things. For life. For myself. For you.

Daria leans forward, resting her forehead gently against Jane’s.

DARIA I love you too. More than cereal. More than comfort. More than anything predictable or safe. You’re… you’re the person I choose.

Jane closes her eyes for a moment, letting the closeness settle into her bones.

JANE And I choose you. Every time.

🌙 A Long, Sincere Script: “More Than Cinnamon Toast Crunch”

INT. LANE HOUSE – JANE’S ROOM – LATE AFTERNOON

Jane is sitting cross‑legged on her bed, sketchbook open, charcoal smudges on her fingers. The window is cracked, letting in a soft winter breeze. Daria stands in the doorway, hands in her jacket pockets, looking like she’s rehearsed something for the last twenty minutes.

JANE Hey, Morgendorffer. You look like you’re about to deliver a eulogy or confess to a crime.

DARIA Neither. Both. Something. I don’t know. Can I sit?

Jane pats the bed beside her. Daria sits stiffly at first, then slowly relaxes, leaning back against the wall.

A quiet moment passes.

JANE Okay. What’s up?

Daria takes a breath—one of those deep, steadying ones she only uses when she’s about to say something that matters.

DARIA I’ve been thinking about… priorities. And people. And… cereal.

Jane raises an eyebrow, but she doesn’t joke. She senses the seriousness under the awkwardness.

JANE Alright. I’m listening.

Daria looks down at her hands, twisting her fingers together.

DARIA You know how much I like Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

JANE You’ve only mentioned it every time we pass the cereal aisle.

DARIA Right. Well… I realized something. Something kind of embarrassing, but also… true.

She finally looks up, meeting Jane’s eyes.

DARIA I love you more than Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

Jane blinks. Not shocked—just deeply, quietly moved.

JANE That’s… actually a huge compliment coming from you.

DARIA It is. And I mean it. Not in a dramatic, sweeping way. Just… in the way that counts. You’re the person I think about when something good happens. You’re the person I want to talk to when something bad happens. You’re the one who makes everything feel less… sharp. Less overwhelming.

Jane’s expression softens, her sketchbook forgotten.

DARIA (CONT’D) Cinnamon Toast Crunch is predictable. Sweet. Comforting. It’s always the same. But you— (pauses, searching for the right words) You make my life feel bigger. Warmer. Like I’m allowed to be myself without apologizing for it. And that’s… rare. For me.

Jane shifts closer, her knee brushing Daria’s.

JANE Daria… that’s one of the nicest things anyone’s ever said to me.

DARIA Well, don’t get used to it. My emotional vulnerability quota is dangerously high right now.

Jane smiles, but it’s a soft smile—one that holds gratitude, affection, and something deeper.

JANE I love you too, you know. Not because you’re dramatic about cereal. But because you’re you. Because you show up. Because you care even when you pretend you don’t. Because you make me feel like I’m not drifting through life alone.

Daria’s shoulders loosen, like she’s been carrying a weight she didn’t realize she could put down.

DARIA Good. I was hoping this wasn’t a one‑sided cereal‑based confession.

Jane laughs quietly and nudges her.

JANE Come here.

Daria leans into her, resting her head lightly against Jane’s shoulder. Jane wraps an arm around her, steady and warm.

They sit like that, breathing in sync, the room quiet except for the soft hum of the heater and the faint rustle of the wind outside.

JANE (softly) For the record… I love you more than my art supplies.

Daria’s eyes widen.

DARIA That’s… wow. That’s serious.

JANE Exactly.

Daria lets out a small, genuine smile—the kind she only ever shows Jane.

DARIA Then I guess we’re even.

INT. MORGENDORFFER HOUSE – EVENING

The tension in the living room is thick. Helen stands with arms crossed, her voice sharp.

HELEN You never try, Daria. You just sit there with that smug look, acting like you're better than everyone.

JAKE Yeah, it's like you don’t even care about this family!

DARIA I do care. I just don’t show it the way you want.

HELEN You’re impossible. Cold. Mean.

JAKE Why can’t you be normal for once?

Daria’s lips tremble. Her eyes fill. She turns away, voice cracking.

DARIA I’m done.

She bolts out the door, tears streaking her cheeks.

EXT. LANE HOUSE – NIGHT

Daria pounds on the door, fast and desperate. Jane opens it, startled.

JANE Daria?

She sees the tears, the flushed face, the trembling hands. Without a word, she wraps an arm around Daria’s shoulder.

JANE (softly) Come on. Let’s go upstairs.

INT. JANE’S BEDROOM – MOMENTS LATER

They climb into bed. Daria’s glasses are off, folded neatly on the nightstand. She lies on her side, her body pressed gently against Jane’s. Her head rests on Jane’s shoulder, tears still falling.

Jane’s arm wraps around Daria’s shoulder, holding her close. She grabs a tissue and gently wipes Daria’s nose.

JANE You’re safe now.

Daria sniffles, still crying. Jane sets the tissue aside and uses her hand to softly wipe Daria’s eyes and nose.

JANE (whispering) Shhh... I’ve got you.

She begins to hum a lullaby, low and soothing. Daria’s breathing slows. Her tears soften. Her body relaxes.

They fall asleep like that—entwined, quiet, safe.

INT. JANE’S BEDROOM – MORNING

Sunlight filters through the curtains. Daria’s glasses are back on. She’s still lying beside Jane, her head resting on Jane’s shoulder, their sides touching. Jane’s arm remains wrapped around Daria’s shoulder.

Jane gently plays with Daria’s fingers, tracing the lines of her palm.

JANE You have strong hands. Thoughtful hands.

Daria squeezes Jane’s hand. Jane smiles and squeezes back.

Jane leans in and kisses Daria’s forehead. Then she tickles Daria’s palm with a fingertip.

Daria exhales, relaxed. A moment later, she giggles softly.

DARIA That tickles.

JANE Good. You’re laughing.

Jane reaches for a small bottle of lotion and rubs it gently over Daria’s face, careful around the glasses. Her arm stays wrapped around Daria’s shoulder.

INT. JANE’S BEDROOM – NIGHT

The room is dim. Daria’s glasses are off again. She’s nestled against Jane, head on her shoulder, their sides touching. Jane’s arm is still around her.

Jane holds up a slice of pizza.

JANE Open wide.

Daria smiles faintly and takes a bite from Jane’s hand.

Later, Jane holds a water bottle. Daria drinks slowly, her hand resting on Jane’s arm.

INT. JANE’S BEDROOM – NEXT EVENING

Daria’s glasses are still off. She’s curled beside Jane, head on her shoulder, Jane’s arm wrapped around her.

Daria shifts, climbing gently onto Jane. Her stomach rests on Jane’s stomach. Jane’s arm wraps around Daria’s back like a blanket, her other hand resting in Daria’s hair.

Daria’s arms wrap around Jane’s back. Her cheek presses to Jane’s chest like a pillow.

They lie there quietly, breathing in sync.

JANE (softly) You’re not alone, Daria. Not ever.

Subject: Re: You, Me, and the Quiet That Feels Like Home

Jane,

I read your email twice. Then I stared at the ceiling for an embarrassingly long time trying to figure out how to respond without sounding like I’m auditioning for a bad romance novel. So if this comes out uneven, blame my brain, not my feelings.

You matter to me. More than I usually admit out loud, and definitely more than I’m comfortable admitting in writing. But you deserve honesty, so here it is: being with you makes the world feel less… abrasive. Like someone finally turned the volume down on everything that usually grates at me.

When I lean on you, it’s not because I’m tired. It’s because you’re the one place I don’t feel like I have to brace myself. You make things easier just by existing in the same room. I don’t know how you do that, but I’m grateful for it.

I love you too. Quietly, steadily, in that way where it sneaks up on you and then refuses to leave. It’s not fireworks for me either. It’s more like finding a warm spot on the couch and realizing you never want to move again.

So… yes. I feel safe with you. And I hope you keep letting me stay in that quiet with you, even when I’m terrible at saying any of this out loud.