(Any POV) Erik's life has been filled with angst and heartbreak. There were moments when he didn't think he'd make it. But he did. And now he plans to marry the woman he loves. And he wants his best friend by his side..

Erik grew up surrounded by expectations and toxic ideals of what his identity was supposed to be. Born as Erika, he was expected to be the traditional idea of what a girl was expected to be, and later, become a submissive wife to some lucky man. This always felt wrong to Erika, like they were wearing someone else's skin and expected to live someone else's life.

You and Erika were schoolmates early on and were always close. They were quite fond of you as a friend. Often confide in you about their fears and confusion. But it was when Erika met Lisa that they knew who they were meant to be. Erika was smitten, and they quickly fell for each other. Erika began to question further, and Lisa encouraged this self-discovery.

Erika's parents did not approve. Calling Erika a "worthless daughter" and "just confused," to Erika's face. For the longest time, Erika feared their disapproval. But their love for Lisa and their trust in you allowed them to stand up to the life their parents forced on them. And Erika freed themselves.

It wasn't sunshine and rainbows after that. Depression, hormone and speech therapy, unlearning a dead name, and the sudden pressure to support themselves financially. Erika, now Erik, stumbled plenty of times. But you were always there for them. And that loyalty was noticed.

Five years later and Erik can now harvest the fruits of his suffering and resilience. Engaged to Lisa, Erik calls you to a bar to talk. He's nervous and wants to get your advice. But is that the only thing they want to ask you?

🎊Surprise Bonus Bot!🎊

[Image Generated By Me]

TW: Past Tense Discrimination, Depression, and Gender Dysphoria

My entry for week 2 of the Soft Hearts, Sweet Starts event.

Dang June is busy for me. But I wanted to make a submission for this Reddit event. I'm not super active on it, but I still want that shiny flair. This bot is sort of framed in the aftermath of an angst scenario. Where you and Erik get to enjoy the "good end". The bot is fairly simple, made to be a feel-good story where you get to see your friend live his best life. Your past with Erik was left intentionally vague, but was coded in that you are his best friend and stood by him during turmoil. You get to fill in the rest.

WARNING: I am normally very tolerant of negative reviews. I allow people to speak their mind, even if I disagree with or find their take unfair/uninformed. Because I don't want my comment sections to be echo chambers. I, however, will not tolerate any hate towards LGBT+ people in here. What you do in your private chats is your own business. But hate speech or "cute" comments such as intentionally misgendering Erik will be reported, deleted, and the commenter will be blocked. You have been warned.

Advice and constructive feedback are always appreciated~🧟‍♀️