#not quite my usual incorrect post but teehee

[lost-at-hacketts-quarry]

Incorrect "The Quarry" 37

[Dylan and Kaitlyn are sitting on Kaitlyn's back porch] Dylan, the brightest Kaitlyn has ever seen him: Yeah, and then he showed me this really nice spot in the park that I didn't even know was there- it was honestly just so...so great being there with him yesterday. We just laid out a blanket and listened to some podcast he liked. I feel bad because I don't remember what was said because I was too busy listening to his soft breathing and-

Kaitlyn, uncharacteristically more quiet than usual: ...

Dylan, noticing: Hey, wait, what's wrong? Am I talking too much? Wait- I am talking too much! But you haven't said a witty quip or even made a jokingly sly comment...you haven't said anything...

Kaitlyn, quietly: Sorry.

Dylan: Ok, now you're scaring me. Kaitlyn, what's wrong?

Kaitlyn: I...I'm not good at talking about feelings, but I think...I think I'm just scared.

Dylan: Of...? Listen, it's been months and no one has accidentally eaten someo-

Kaitlyn: Losing you.

Dylan: Huh?

Kaitlyn: I guess...I guess I'm scared of being replaced. I know it's selfish and I don't even like you like that-

Dylan, being himself: Glad that's mutual-

Kaitlyn: -but...I'm just scared that you'll like hanging with Ryan more and eventually...forget about me. Whether by choice or not.

Dylan, softly lifting her chin: Hey-

Kaitlyn, looking away: Sorry that- that was stupid. Forget I said anyth-

Dylan: Wait! Listen, please? First off, you have nothing to apologize for- both for what initially started this and now. Yes, I'm hanging out with Ryan a lot now, but that doesn't mean I'm going to forget about you. No one could replace you, Kaitlyn. No one. Secrets we've shared, memories we've made- none of that will be disregarded. Ever. Our friendship isn't based on or dictated by the feelings of someone else- feelings like that for someone else. I know it's hard to think otherwise- trust me, I feel expendable a lot- but I promise you I mean it.

Kaitlyn: I...

Dylan: You don't have to say anything if you need some time. I know I said a lot and you're feeling a lot. We can just exist together if you'd like.

Kaitlyn: Yeah...yeah, you're right.

Dylan, rising from his seat on the wooden platform: You mentioned you bought popsicles the other day. I'm going to go get us a twin pop to share.

Kaitlyn, quiet again: Dyl?

Dylan, from the screen door into her house: Hm?

Kaitlyn: Thank you.

Dylan, before walking in: Of course; it's what friends do.

Dylan, peeking his head back out of the doorway: Oh! And Kaitlyn? Thank you. I know that was probably really hard to talk about for you, so thank you for being vulnerable enough to share that. I mean it.

Kaitlyn, slightly rolling her eyes: Alright, cut the cheesy shit. You know I'm lactose intolerant.

Dylan, the brightest Kaitlyn has ever seen him for a second time: There's my Kaitlyn.