Try and Come Clean

You pause at the restaurant entrance, your hand reaching for Clara's arm. The weight of everything that's happened over the past two days presses down on you, and suddenly you feel an overwhelming need to confide in her.

"Clara, wait," you say, pulling her gently aside. "There's something I need to tell you. Something important."

She turns to you, her eyebrows lifting with curiosity as she studies your face. "What is it, Mia?"

You take a deep breath, trying to form the words. "I'm not... I mean, I wasn't always..." Your throat suddenly tightens, as if invisible hands are constricting your vocal cords. "I'm actually M-M-M—" The words physically refuse to emerge, your windpipe closing like a fist is squeezing it.

You clutch at your throat, eyes widening in panic. Your face flushes red as you strain to **** the truth past your lips.

"Mia?" Clara's expression shifts from curiosity to concern. She places a steadying hand on your shoulder. "Are you alright? Do you need water?"

You try another approach. "There's an a-a-app..." The word dissolves into a strangled gasp. Your head pounds with frustration as you realize the magic binding you won't allow you to reveal the truth. Even as you try to mime or gesture, your body refuses to cooperate.

"I think I need a minute," you finally manage, the Irish lilt in your voice more pronounced with your distress.

Clara guides you to a bench near the restaurant's entrance, her arm supportive around your waist. "Take your time, sweetheart. Is it about us? About how fast this is moving?"

You shake your head, trying once more. "I used to be—" Again, your throat closes completely.

"Nervous about dating women?" Clara supplies helpfully, misunderstanding your struggle. "It's okay if this is new for you. We can take it slow."

The panic subsides as you realize the futility of your attempt. Whatever magic transformed you won't allow you to expose itself. You feel defeated but **** a smile.

"Sorry," you say finally. "I just got overwhelmed for a moment. This is all so new."

Clara's face softens with relief. She reaches up to brush her thumb across your plumped lips. "New can be scary. But also exciting, right?"

She stands, offering her hand to help you up. "Our table's waiting. Maybe some wine will help you relax?"

As you take her hand, you realize you'll need to find another way to navigate this bizarre situation—one that doesn't involve direct confession. For now, you're trapped in this enhanced body, unable to reveal the truth even to someone you're growing to trust.

"Wine sounds perfect," you reply, forcing brightness into your voice as Clara leads you into Rivoli's elegant interior.

17:50 | Sunday 3 August 2025 | Inside Rivoli's

All daily tasks completed!

Return Points: 25/100

Babe Bucks: 20