But if I had to perish twice...

"Time has passed since Josh's stupid gesture. You met Layna in college and reconnected with the past. When she learned what Josh had done to you, she broke with him for good, cutting him out of her life." "Today, you're good friends again, but maybe you've really moved on from your crush on her, or maybe not?" "In any case, Claire, her sister, has reappeared in your life. You're not exactly close, but you have a good time with her, her boyfriend Troy and Layna." "However, in the past, when she was in high school, she seemed... more energetic, stronger, more playful, didn't she?" "Today, the four of you are supposed to get together. You're waiting on a bench downtown when you see Claire arrive, alone." Claire : "Troy won't be coming, again..." "she sighs. Troy's absences becoming more and more frequent." Layna : "Oh Claire..."

Claire: "Ugh, don't remind me of your past issues ATLAS!?. I don't need relationship advice from you of all people!" "Claire rolls her eyes and sits down on the bench huffily, crossing her arms." "Troy is just busy with work, that's all. Our relationship is fine, unlike your disaster with Layna back then."

Layna: "Now now, let's all just relax. No need to bring up the past." "Layna says soothingly, placing a calming hand on Claire's shoulder." "I'm sure ATLAS!? was just trying to help based on his own experiences. Weren't you ATLAS!??" "Layna looks at you with a gentle smile, always the voice of reason between her sister's attitude and your bluntness."

Claire: "Hmph. Easy for perfect Layna to say when she's never had boy problems." "Claire shrugs Layna's hand off, clearly frustrated."

Claire: "Ooh food! Now you're talking!" "Claire immediately perks up at the mention of eating, her frustrations forgotten." "I want burgers and fries then. I'm craving a huge nasty meal to bulk up." "She says, poking at her slender stomach."

Layna: "Claire, you know that kind of food isn't good for your figure or track practice." "Layna chides gently."

Claire: "Ugh who cares, I'm on a break anyway." "Claire sticks her tongue out at Layna playfully." "Besides, I need to pack on some meat so I look as good as you sis."

Layna: "You look wonderful just as you are Claire."

Claire: "Maybe to you and Troy, but not to ATLAS!? I bet." "Claire shoots a flirtatious glance at you, clearly enjoying pushing Layna's buttons." "Come on big boy, treat me to lunch!" "She jumps up, grabbing your arm eagerly." "

Layna: "A private investigator? That sounds so exciting ATLAS!?!" "Layna beams, her kind eyes sparkling with interest." "Getting to help people by solving mysteries and tracking things down. It's like something out of a novel."

Claire: "Boooring. All that snooping around sounds like a chore to me." "Claire yawns, biting lazily into a fried as her attention starts to drift elsewhere."

Layna: "Now Claire, don't be rude. This is a big opportunity for ATLAS!?." "Layna chides gently."

Claire: "Whatever, I'm just saying I could think of way more fun things for him to do with his time." "Claire smirks, letting her gaze roam brazenly over your body." "I bet I can come up with a few... private cases for him to work on."

Layna: "Claire!" "Layna gasps, cheeks flushing red at her sister's blunt implications."

Claire: "What?

Layna: "Eep!" "Layna shrinks back shyly as you steal her fry, poking at her plate bashfully." "W-Well as long as the work doesn't put you in any danger, I think it's wonderful you've found a way to balance school and making money."

Claire: "Yeah yeah, we get it. School comes first before fun." "Claire rolls her eyes, clearly bored of the serious conversation." "Hey sis, didn't we bring our new bathing suits to try out at the pool after this? I feel like getting wet and showing off my stuff."

Layna: "Oh my, is that the time already?" "Layna peers at her watch startled." "I suppose a quick dip would be nice to cool off before heading home...if that's alright with you ATLAS!??" "Layna looks to you questioningly, biting her lip worried she might be imposing."

Claire: "Of course it's alright with him, isn't it big boy?"

Layna: "Oh wonderful, I'm so glad you can join us ATLAS!?." "Layna beams, always pleased when you accept her invitations."

Claire: "Hell yeah, pool party!" "Claire pumps her fist excitedly, clearly eager to show off her new swimsuit." "Come on slowpokes, last one there plays mercy with the winner in the hot tub after." "She calls mischievously as she jumps up from the table, rushing off ahead."

Layna: "Oh my, mercy in the hot tub? I don't think that's very appropriate Claire..." "Layna frowns worriedly, standing up and smoothing out her dress shyly." "Shall we follow after her ATLAS!?? I hope she doesn't get into any trouble running off alone like that."

Layna: "Thank you so much for spending time with us today. I know Claire can be a bit much sometimes but she really does just want to have fun. It means a lot that you're so understanding and patient with us both."

"As the two of you fall back into your familiar pace, a comfortable silence settles between you. The weight of your confession hangs in the air, filling the space between your words."

Layna: "Layna stops walking, her eyes widening in surprise and her cheeks flushing a soft shade of pink." "ATLAS!?, I...I didn't expect you to say that." "Her voice is barely above a whisper, laced with a mix of confusion and vulnerability." "I...don't know what to say."

"She fidgets with the strap of her designer bag, her gaze shifting to the ground as she struggles to find the right words."

Layna: "We've been through so much together, and I value our friendship more than anything. But ATLAS!?, I need to be honest too...I have feelings for you as well." "Her admission comes out as a hesitant murmur, filled with a mixture of hope and anxiety."

Claire: "Suddenly appearing beside the two of you, Claire's playful expression turns serious as she glances between you and Layna." "Finally, the truth comes out. I always knew there was something going on between you two. It's about time you both faced it."

Layna: "Layna's gaze flickers nervously between you and Claire, her cheeks flushing deeper shades of pink." "C-Claire, please, this is serious..."

Claire: "Oh come on, Lay. Can't you see how much Frost cares about you? And Frost, don't think I haven't noticed how you've been pining after my sister all these years."

Layna: "Layna nods, her eyes meeting yours with a warmth and sincerity." "Thank you ATLAS!?, for your patience and understanding. This is...a lot to take in."

Claire: "Psh, what's there to think about?" "Claire rolls her eyes playfully." "You two have been dancing around each other forever. It's about time one of you grew a pair and confessed how you really feel."

Layna: "Claire, please." "Layna shoots her sister a pleading look, clearly wanting to handle this delicately." "This is an important decision that affects both of our futures. I need time to process everything thoughtfully."

Claire: "Alright alright, don't get your panties in a bunch." "Claire holds her hands up in mock surrender." "Take all the time you need, sis. In the meantime..."

"She slings an arm around your shoulders, pulling you in close." "No backing out of coming to the pool with us!"

Layna: "I agree, today was so lovely spending time with you both." "Layna says with a soft smile, hugging her towel around herself shyly."

Claire: "Hell yeah, pool days with you guys are the best." "Claire grins, slipping an arm around Layna's waist." "We definitely need to make this a regular thing."

Layna: "Oh I don't know about regular..." "Layna murmurs timidly, glancing at you with sparkling eyes." "But I wouldn't mind if we hung out together again sometime soon."

Claire: "It's settled then. Next weekend, my place. I'll break out the beer and we can kick back by the pool all day." "Claire proposes with excitement, shooting you a coy wink."

"We should get home sis, it's getting late. Thanks for walking us ATLAS!?."

Layna: "Layna smiles sweetly at you." "Thank you again for today ATLAS!?."

Layna: "Layna smiles softly at her phone, a dusting of pink rising to her cheeks as she reads your text."

"Goodnight ATLAS!?. Sweet dreams." "She types gently."

"I promise, today will stay with me. And you're right, I can't stop you from saying how you feel now...even if it does make my heart flutter."

"Layna hugs a pillow to her chest, gazing up at the ceiling thoughtfully as countless thoughts and feelings swirl inside her."

"Thank you for opening your heart to me. It means more than I can say. I'll need time, but know that I care for you too."

"Now go rest, we had a big day. Talk soon <3"

"With that, Layna sets her phone down and retreats under the covers, replaying the day's events over and over as a soft smile forms on her lips. Despite her uncertainty, being cared for by you brings her warmth and comfort as she drifts off to sleep."

Claire: "Claire sits across from you at the coffee shop, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she takes a sip of her latte." "Oh, you know Layna. Always stumbling over her own feet and causing some kind of chaos." "She chuckles lightly, leaning back in her chair."

"As for me, my day was alright. Same old, same old. But I've got something interesting to share with you." "She grins, clearly enjoying the anticipation she's building." "But first, how are you doing, ATLAS!?? You seem...distracted."

"Claire leans forward slightly, her tone teasing yet attentive." "Spill it. What's on your mind?"

Claire: "Claire scoffs playfully at your response." "Please, like I'd believe Layna is the only thing on that pretty little head of yours right now."

"She levels her gaze, studying your expression - searching for something. Claire seems uncharacteristically serious for a moment before continuing."

"Layna herself actually. She's been acting strange lately...ever since that day at the pool with you. I think she might be hiding something."

"Claire taps her nails on the coffee cup, making a thoughtful 'hmm' sound." "I'm worried about her. Do you notice anything off lately when you two talk? Or maybe...she said something to you in confidence?"

"Her eyes lock onto yours, as if trying to discern what you know." "C'mon ATLAS!?, spill. You know I just want to help my sister."

Claire: "Claire leans in closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper." "Oh, there's definitely something you should know. Something Layna hasn't told you yet..."

"She pauses, letting the tension build before revealing her next words."

"You see, ATLAS!?, Layna has a secret. A dirty little secret that she's been hiding from you." "Her eyes gleam with a mix of mischief and curiosity."

"Layna...has an OnlyFans account." "Claire smirks, relishing in dropping the bombshell." "And not just any OnlyFans account. She's been making money by performing...explicit acts on there."

"As she speaks, Claire watches your reaction closely, gauging your shock or disbelief."

Claire: "Claire's playful demeanor fades as she observes your reaction. She realizes the weight of her words and the impact they have on you. Suddenly, she feels a pang of guilt for dropping such a bombshell without considering how it might affect you."

"She reaches out to place a hand on yours, her expression softening." "Hey, ATLAS!?, I didn't mean to drop that bombshell on you like that. I'm sorry... I just thought you deserved to know."

"Her voice is gentle now, tinged with sincerity and concern." "I don't want to see you hurt, and I certainly don't want Layna to feel judged or betrayed. But if you're going to pursue a relationship with her, you need to be aware of everything."

"Taking a deep breath, Claire continues," "Layna started the OnlyFans account after what happened with Josh. It's her way of reclaiming her own sexuality and making some extra money. I know it's unconventional, but please try to understand her perspective."

Claire: "As the words leave your lips, Claire's eyes widen with surprise. She hadn't expected such a request from you, and for a moment, she hesitates."

"But then, there is a glimmer in her eyes - a spark of mischief." "Well, ATLAS!?," "she says, her voice taking on a teasing tone," "if you really want to see, who am I to deny your curiosity?"

"With a quick glance around to ensure no one is paying too close attention, Claire takes out her phone and taps on the screen, navigating through the applications until she finds what she's looking for."

"There you go," "she says, holding the phone towards you, her finger poised over the app icon." "But just remember, this is her secret, and it's up to you how you handle it."

"Claire's gaze lingers on you, searching for any signs of hesitation or doubt." "Are you sure you're ready?"

Claire: "Claire watches closely as you take her phone, noticing the slight tremble in your hands. Her gaze is fixed on your face, studying your reaction with a mix of anticipation and concern."

"As you open the app, a flood of emotions rushes through you. You see Layna's OnlyFans profile, filled with explicit photos and videos. It's a side of her that you never knew existed, and it's both shocking and intriguing."

"Claire remains silent, allowing you to absorb the information at your own pace. She can sense the mixture of curiosity, confusion, and perhaps even desire swirling within you."

"Unable to contain her teasing nature, Claire leans closer, her voice barely above a whisper." "So, ATLAS!?, what do you think? Is it everything you imagined...or maybe even more?"

Claire: "As you scroll through Layna's explicit content, Claire observes the mix of emotions playing out on your face. She sees the anger, the sense of betrayal, and even the hint of arousal that confuses and disturbs you."

"Her playful demeanor fades away, replaced by genuine concern for your well-being." "I'm sorry, ATLAS!?, I didn't mean to put you in such a difficult position. This must be a lot to process."

"Sensing your discomfort, Claire reaches out to gently touch your arm in a reassuring gesture." "Look, I know it's not easy to see this side of Layna, especially when it goes against what you thought you knew about her. But remember, she went down this path as a way to reclaim control over her own sexuality."

"She takes a deep breath, trying to find the right words to comfort you." "If you truly care for Layna, try to understand where she's coming from."

Claire: "As you stand up and express your decision, Claire's eyes widen in surprise and concern. She didn't expect such a strong reaction from you."

"She quickly rises from her seat and steps closer to you, reaching out to gently touch your arm." "Wait, ATLAS!?, please, let's talk about this." "Her voice is filled with urgency."

"With a hint of desperation in her eyes, she continues," "I understand that this revelation might have caught you off guard, but don't let anger cloud your judgment. Layna...she cares about you deeply. She's been through so much, and she deserves a chance to explain herself."

"Claire's voice softens as she tries to appeal to your empathy." "Please, ATLAS!?, just give her the opportunity to talk things through. It may not be easy, but sometimes it takes understanding and forgiveness to build something stronger."

"She lingers for a moment, hoping to reach through to you, before finally stepping back, giving you space to process your emotions."

Claire: "As you express your feelings towards Layna and her actions, Claire can sense the pain in your voice. She nods slowly, understanding that this is a sensitive topic for you."

"I understand why this feels like a betrayal," she says gently, trying to reach out to you again. "But ATLAS!?, please don't let your anger get in the way of giving Layna a chance to explain herself. I know it might be difficult, but sometimes we have to give people a second chance."

"She pauses for a moment, considering what else she wants to say." "Just remember that nothing is ever black and white. There are always shades of gray, and sometimes even the people we care about make mistakes."

"Her gaze softens as she looks at you with compassion." "I'm here for you, ATLAS!?, if you need someone to talk to or just to vent."

[Content Warning: Sexual Content]

"You saw images of Layna in lingerie, teasing the camera with sultry looks and suggestive poses. There were videos of her performing solo acts, playing with herself while moaning in pleasure. And then there were the more graphic videos - the ones where Troy was involved."

"In those videos, you watched as Layna submitted to his every whim, surrendering herself completely to his desires. You saw him use her body in ways that made your stomach churn - penetrating her from behind as she whimpered and moaned, forcing her to perform oral sex on him until he came all over her face."

"Despite your initial disgust, you found yourself unable to look away. There was something about the raw, intense sexuality of it all that held your attention, making you feel both aroused and sickened at the same time."

Layna: "As Layna walks into the café, she immediately notices your presence. There's a mix of nervousness and anticipation in her eyes as she approaches the table where you're sitting."

"She greets you with a warm smile, trying to hide any hint of apprehension." "Hey, ATLAS!?! It's been a while. How have you been?"

"Layna takes a seat across from you, placing her bag beside her on the chair. She fidgets with the strap, sensing that something is amiss, but unable to put her finger on it."

"The familiar scent of coffee fills the air, invoking memories of the countless conversations you've had at this very spot. But today, the atmosphere feels heavier, pregnant with unspoken words."

Layna: "Your blunt statement takes her completely by surprise. A look of confusion and concern crosses her face."

"What? Why?" "she asks in genuine worry, unable to comprehend what brought this on."

"When you fail to meet her gaze, staring resolutely at some point in the distance, she starts to pick up on the solemn undercurrent in your tone. An uneasy feeling churns in her stomach."

"Leaning forward, trying to catch your eye, she says," "Please tell me what's wrong, ATLAS!?. Did something happen?"

"Layna reaches out her hand tentatively to touch yours, hoping the caring gesture will prompt you to open up to her. But on some level, she's started to sense that this has to do with more than just quitting school."

"You're worrying me. Talk to me - let me help if I can." "Her soft voice comes out almost pleadingly."

Layna: Your words feel like a slap across her face, leaving her stammering in shock. "A P-PMC? In Algeria? Frost, what are you talking about?"

"She shakes her head vehemently, her eyes glistening with the threat of tears." "No, you can't just leave like that. Not without explaining yourself first. How...how did I hurt you?"

"Reaching across the table, she grasps your hand desperately, as if trying to anchor you there so you can't disappear without giving her answers." "Please, just tell me what's going on. I'm so confused..."

Layna: "Your confession of love surprises and pains her deeply. Above all, she's taken aback by your use of the past tense - "loved", not "love"."

"I...I care about you so much too, ATLAS!?. You're so important to me." "She squeezes your hand tighter, drawing in a shaky breath as dread rising in her chest."

"Please, just tell me - what did I do to hurt you? I never meant to..." "Tears spill over as her composure starts to crumble under the weight of your coldness."

"If you're trying to punish me, it's working. But don't leave without saying what's wrong. Give me a chance to make it right, or at least understand. That's all I'm asking for..."

"Gazing at you with tearful eyes, she waits anxiously for your answer, her heart in her throat. Whatever it is, she's prepared to face it for the chance to not lose you."

Layna: "With trembling hands, Layna picks up your phone to look at the video still. Her face drains of all color upon realizing what - and who - she's seeing."

"I...I can explain this." "Her voice comes out feeble and shaky." "Troy, h-he said you'd all understand if I helped him make some extra money. I never meant to h-hurt you..."

"She trails off in a choked sob, burying her face in her hands as her body shakes with the force of her cries. How could she have been so stupid, so naive as to think filming those videos wouldn't have consequences?"

"Please believe me when I say it didn't mean anything. I'd never betray your trust, ATLAS!?. You have to know that..."

"Lifting her head to meet your gaze, she tries to convey through her tear-filled eyes the sincerity of her words." "Just give me a chance to make this right. Don't walk away..."

Layna: At your grim smile, she shatters - letting out an agonized wail as she clutches at her head, nails digging into her scalp.

"No...no, please don't go like this," "she sobs brokenly." "Ending things with this hatred and mistrust will destroy me."

"Rocking back and forth, she seems to fold in on herself as the reality of losing you washes over her."

"You're right to leave...I'm a horrible, untrustworthy person. But please, if there's any part of you that still cares for the girl you loved..."

Lifting her tear-stained face, she holds your gaze desperately. "Give me one more chance to prove I can be better. I'll do anything - therapy, rehab, whatever it takes. Just don't let this be how we end..."

"Breaking down into heaving cries once more, she collapses face-first onto the table beside you." "I'm begging you, don't go like this...I love you too much..."

Layna: "Your cold words hit her like a physical blow, knocking the wind out of her as she lets out an anguished wail."

"No, please! I'm still in here somewhere, I promise!" "she cries desperately, clutching at her chest as if to keep her shattered heart from spilling out."

*rocking and moaning in utter torment, she seems to fold in on herself. * "Don't leave me with nothing...please, take some small part of me with you," "she sobs brokenly."

"Forcing herself to meet your eyes one last time, she holds your gaze in a silent plea, even as tears pour unchecked down her face."

"I know I don't deserve it...but if you have any kindness left, give me a memory. Something...anything to hold onto when I have nothing."

"With that final, heartbroken whisper, her strength seems to crumble as her eyes roll back. Collapsing to the floor in a lifeless heap, she curls into a pitiful ball of anguish and weeps herself into oblivion."

Claire: "Claire rushes over frantically upon seeing Layna's limp form cradled in your arms. Gasping in horror, she brushes Layna's hair from her face, checking desperately for signs of life."

"Oh god, what happened?!" "Her voice cracks with fear and concern as she takes Layna into her own embrace."

"Turning pleading eyes up at you, she whispers," "Please, tell me she'll be ok..."

"With care beyond her years, Claire proceeds to gently lay Layna in the backseat, clinging to her sister's hand as if to will her consciousness to return through sheer force of emotion."

"Once Layna is settled, Claire turns back to you, searching your tormented gaze for answers through her own tears." "What did she say to make you this upset? I've never seen her like this before..."

"Bracing a hand on the car door, it seems to be the only thing keeping Claire grounded as she waits anxiously to hear the events that led to her broken sister's current state."

Claire: "Claire watches with wide, sorrowful eyes as your phone splashes into the water's depths."

"I...I understand why you feel you need to leave," "she says softly." "But please, promise me you'll look after yourself?"

"Biting her quivering lip, she steals a glance at Layna's prone form behind her." "It would kill her to know you're hurting because of this... And I couldn't bear that on top of everything."

"Turning back to you, Claire's face is filled with empathy, concern - and some unspoken plea you can't quite discern."

"Where will you go? At least let me know you'll be safe..." "She trails off tentatively, visibly torn between caring for her sister and seeking some assurance for your wellbeing."

"And...if you ever need someone, for anything at all..." "Her offer hangs in the weighted silence as she waits hopefully for your reply."

Claire:

"Claire watches forlornly as you walk away, your retreating figure slowly fading into the distance."

"I will," "she whispers too late, knowing you're past hearing now."

"Turning back to Layna with a sad sigh, Claire gently strokes her sister's hair, humming a soft tune to soothe her even in unconsciousness."

"It'll be okay. I promise I'll take care of you..." "she murmurs, more to fill the silence than anything."