10 years prior in Elmira City
“Why did you bring me to the park, D?”
“Why not? It's a nice Sunday morning, the weather's nice, and you love coming to the park to hang out.”
“Yeah, when we were like 7, maybe. But the park? That's so boring, Dallas.”
“It's not that bad, Kai-”
“You text me first thing in the morning wanting to take me out, I was expecting a karaoke bar or the country club your mom frequents. Not Central Park that barely anyone visits anymore!”
“Kairo, relax. I just thought we could have a simple hangout that isn't wasting my parents money or playing video games. Plus, we haven't hanged out around town in ages.”
“Since when do you care about wasting your parents' money, Dallas? And what's wrong with staying inside and playing minecraft like we usually do?” “Touché about my parents, Kai. But just enlighten my nostalgia for a few hours please and try to pretend you love the park again?”
“See Kairo, isn't this fun? Being outdoors and embracing our inner child again?”
“I guess. Though, I feel too big for these childish games. Can't we play chess or do something else?” “Kairo, do you ever go one day without complaining? But I agree, I'm starting to get too tall for the seesaw.”
“This is more enjoyable, Dallas. Sitting by the pond, sketching baby ducks and the cityscape.”
“Baby ducks? Boring. You and your realistic drawings, Kairo. I'm drawing Aliens abducting those protestors over at city hall.” “I still wonder why I even consider you my best friend at times, weirdo.”
“Okay, so I have big news. Remember that prestigious art school I was telling you about months ago?"
“Yeah, you wouldn't shut up about it for weeks. So what about it."
“Well, my mom and I went to tour it a while back. And she helped me submit my application for their visual arts program. Last night, when she checked her email, they previewed my portfolio and accepted me into the program!” “No way seriously? You were serious about wanting to go to LeFomage? Hell, congratulation Kairo.”
“Why don't you sound that happy for me? I feel like you're not really happy for me, Dallas.”
“I am happy. I mean, you do deserve it. It's just… means you're going to possibly leave me alone with all these weirdos and snobby pricks.”
“Oh my god, Dallas, be serious. Plus, not everyone at our school is that bad.”
“... And I'll have my own dormitory. Hopefully my roommate is nice. Oh! And apparently they have a fantastic theater program too. Like, you know, the famous Matthew Hemming? Apparently he went to LeFomage before he made it big in Bridgeport. God, I love his movies.” “Only you and every mom, maybe. That guy is a grade-A jackass. And gives off weird vibes. And has a very punchable face. But Matthew Hemming aside, I'm happy you're following your dream, Kairo.” “Then why are you giving me that look? Are you upset with me, D?”
“Nah, I'm not upset. Okay, perhaps I'm processing the face next year I won't have my best friend at school with me and that she's going to be at a private school that's 3 hours away. And I'll be forced to hang out with other people. But I'm a little worried you won't remember me or something.”
“That's not true! I'll be home every other weekend to visit. And I still can call and text you. Plus, we still can play video games together. I wouldn't forget you, Dallas.”
“Yeah, okay. That's what you say now. Until suddenly you become too busy and meet cooler and more popular friends, and I get put on the back burner. Plus your memory sucks, and you're a horrible texter.” “Okay, my communication could be better. But you've been my best friend for 9 years, Dallas. I wouldn't forget you that easily. And I promise I'll see you every month when I come back.” “Fine. You better keep your promise, Kairo, I swear.”
Tag list: @sushiikinsss, here's me finally posting the family slowly mamas :)đź’ž
