Allison

At the same time

Ever since Harm and Isamu left the room, these two have been apologising to each other in circles…

“Again, I’m really sorry about earlier, Adam.”

“It’s okay.”

“No, I was being a real bitch, so yeah, sorry.”

“Really, Isabelle, it’s okay. I was sticking my nose where it wasn’t needed.”

Adam's a shy and reserved guy, so he’s really not good in these kinds of situations. It doesn't help Isabelle seems like the kind of person who just has to be right… I can respect that mindset but in this situation…?

Bloody hell. "If you're both so sorry, why not just take each other out for a movie or something. Anything to get this nonsense to stop." I half-jokingly say this. It shut them up at least.

… However, surprised by the suggestion, Isabelle glances at Adam, who blushes and looks down. 

Wow, and I just wanted them to stop, yikes…

Ed and Sean both have to stop themselves from laughing. Immature, little arseholes. Being sat between them on the couch as we watch this “show” I elbow them both in the arm. I suppose I did catch them off guard. Isabelle's eyes widen, unsure how to respond.

The room falls into an awkward silence as we await… some kind of answer.

After a time, Isabelle musters a warm smile. She looks up to Adam, and agrees, "Sure, why not?"

Adam's face lights up with a mix of surprise and excitement. It’s about time too. I’ve missed seeing him like this.

Meanwhile, these two idiots beside me are cheering him on like they're in the audience of a sport or something. Though, I’ll admit, I do share the sentiment.

“Uh, great. Yeah. Nice.”

I feel embarrassed on his behalf at this point. Some things never change I suppose. I wonder if...

“Just go. We’ll let them know you’ve gone out.” Ed beats me to it.

“Whoa, are you sure? Now?” Isabelle, surprised, inquires.

Even I wasn’t expecting that, given how he was just acting. 

“Yeah, go ahead. Get lost. You can apologise elsewhere.” Ed throws his car keys to Adam, who catches them, still in a bit of shock and surprise at what’s happening.

“Let’s just go before he says anymore, Isabelle. I’m not sure if I like how he phrased that last sentence…”

“Yeeeaaaaahhhh. Fair enough.” Isabelle chuckles, and she and Adam leave the room, Adam shrugging at us as if to say, “What the hell, guys?!”

The door closes, and their footsteps can be heard getting quieter and quieter.

“Talk about playing wingman.” Sean pipes up. I know where this is going… “Are you sure about this?”

“...Come on, mate. Why wouldn’t I be?”

“I mean, sure…” Ed places his hand on my shoulder. “...but you know that’s not what Sean meant.” 

Yeah, I know. 

I nod weakly.

“He still feels some kind of responsibility for not being there… that day.”

“Yeah, I thought that’s what you two were talking about at the house.” 

“Yup. He needn’t worry, though. I’d much rather he start thinking about himself for once.”

“I try to help with his confidence, but I guess it doesn’t really mean a whole lot coming from me.” Ed sighs lightly. “I guess I’m too nice.”

Sean and I both look at Ed and almost simultaneously say, “Yes, you are.”

“... No comment. Drink?”

Ed stands up and starts to walk towards the kitchen area.

Dodge the subject much, Ed?