Liaden: That’s really sad, but I can understand why you would feel that way
Dean: I’m always going to be this way, Liaden
Dean: It’ll never be normal or fun with me
Liaden: Normal is overrated, and I would dispute your second statement
Liaden: I always have fun when I’m around you
Dean: You do?
Liaden: Yeah. You let me ramble on and you make me smile and you’re good at your job
Liaden: And you’re hot
Liaden: Are you still there?
Dean: Yeah
Liaden: Good, because I have a question, if you’re willing
Dean: OK
Liaden: Why did you come out last night, in spite of all of that? Nobody would blame you for ducking out of something that isn’t an obligation, especially when it’s not like you can join in
Dean: Don’t ask me that
Liaden: Why not?
Dean: Because if I tell you the truth that’s going to change things and right now things are comfortable and nice and more than I ever thought I’d have. And I don’t want them to get weird
Liaden: Dean. Why did you show up last night?
Dean: Because you were there.
Liaden: <3
Liaden: LOL you’ve reduced me to emojis. Most unprofessional for a linguistics prof, and not something I generally do. Don’t tell my boss [wink emoji]
Liaden: By the way, I went because I want to get to know your friends, but that’s not the main reason
Liaden: I had one eye on the door until you arrived because what I truly wanted was for you to be there
Dean: <3
Liaden: I like you
Dean: Liaden…
Liaden: Yes?
Liaden: …?
Dean: Never mind. Catch you later x
Liaden: Aww, come on, don’t leave me hanging LOL
Liaden: Dean?
