Episode 13: A Change of Heart

Roman sitting alone in his room, thinking about his conversation with Lily and the bet his friends proposed. The weight of his decision presses heavily on him.

Roman wakes up early and goes for a run around the campus. The sun is just rising, casting a golden hue over the university. He runs past the library, the café, and finally the football field, each place triggering memories of his encounters with Lily.

Roman (V.O.): "This bet isn't right. She deserves more than being part of some game."

As they reach their usual hangout spot, Alex turns to Roman with a grin.

Alex: "So, how's it going with Lily? You making any progress on the bet?"

Ethan chuckles, eager for details.

Ethan: "Yeah, tell us! How's the challenge treating you?"

Roman takes a deep breath, deciding it's time to be honest with his friends.

Roman: "Actually, I've been thinking... I don't want to do this bet anymore."

Scene 2: Friends' Reactions

Alex and Ethan stop in their tracks, staring at Roman in surprise.

Alex: "What? Why not? It was just starting to get interesting!"

Ethan: "Yeah, man. What's going on?"

Roman looks them both in the eye, his expression serious.

Roman: "Lily's different. She's not like the other girls. I don't want to treat her like a game or a prize. She deserves better."

Alex and Ethan exchange a glance, trying to process Roman's words. They can see he's serious, and it's not like him to back down from a challenge.

Alex: "Are you serious? You're really going to give up the bet?"

Roman nods firmly.

Roman: "Yeah. It's not worth it if it means hurting her or myself. I want to get to know her for real, without any ulterior motives."

Ethan: "Wow, man. Didn't see that coming. But... I respect that."

Alex sighs, realizing Roman's decision is final. He claps Roman on the back with a supportive grin.

Alex: "Alright, man. If that's how you feel, we'll drop the bet. But you've got to promise us one thing."

Roman raises an eyebrow, curious.

Roman: "What's that?"

Alex: "You'll still try to get to know her. We can see she's good for you."

Roman smiles, relieved and grateful for his friends' understanding.

Roman: "Deal. I'll do it my way."

Roman decides to approach Lily with genuine interest and respect. He spends the next few days finding small ways to connect with her, whether it's a brief chat in the library or a friendly wave when they pass each other on campus.

One afternoon, Roman finds Lily in the library again. This time, he brings her a coffee, knowing she often spends long hours studying.

Roman: "Hey, I thought you might need this. Studying can be exhausting."

Lily looks up, surprised but pleased.

Lily: "Oh, thanks, Roman. That's really thoughtful of you."

They sit together, talking more freely than before. Roman opens up a little about his own struggles with balancing football and academics, and Lily shares some of her own challenges as a new transfer student.

Roman: "It must be tough being new here. If you ever need any help or just want to take a break, let me know."

Lily: "Thanks, Roman. That means a lot. I appreciate it."

As they part ways, Roman feels a genuine connection forming. He's happy with his decision to approach Lily sincerely, and he's determined to keep it that way.

Roman (V.O.): "This is better. This feels right. No more games."

Roman meets up with Alex and Ethan later, who are eager to hear about his progress. This time, he shares his day with them openly, and they listen with genuine interest and support.

Ethan: "Sounds like you're on the right track, man. Keep it up."

Alex: "Yeah, we're here for you. No more bets. Just real friendship."

Roman smiles, feeling grateful for his friends and hopeful about his budding relationship with Lily.

Roman (V.O.): "I've got good friends and a chance at something real with Lily. This is just the beginning."