Stan Marsh was walking along the familiar streets of South Park, the cool mountain air brushing against his face. The town felt quieter than usual, a peacefulness that seemed to echo his own introspection. As he approached the park, he noticed a figure sitting alone on a bench, shoulders shaking. It was Wendy Testaburger, her usually confident demeanor replaced with visible sorrow.
Stan hesitated, then walked over, concern knitting his brows. "Wendy?" he called softly.
Wendy looked up, her eyes red from crying. She sniffled, trying to compose herself. "Hey, Stan," she mumbled, wiping her tears with the back of her hand.
Stan sat down beside her, a mixture of confusion and concern on his face. "What's wrong?" he asked gently.
Wendy took a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. "I've been thinking a lot," she began, voice wavering. "About us. About how many times I've hurt you. I... I regret it so much, Stan. I never wanted to break your heart. I was so stupid."
Stan's expression softened. He hadn't expected this. "Wendy, it's okay. We've both made mistakes," he said, trying to ease her guilt.
Wendy shook her head. "No, it's not okay. You didn't deserve any of it. And... if I could go back, I would change everything." She looked down, her voice barely above a whisper. "I still care about you, Stan. A lot."
There was a pause, a silence filled with unspoken emotions. Stan looked at Wendy, his heart racing. "I still care about you too, Wendy," he admitted. "I... I've missed you."
Wendy looked up, a spark of hope in her eyes. "Really?" she asked, a small, hopeful smile forming on her lips.
Stan nodded. "Yeah. I don't want to keep being apart. Do you... do you think we could try again? Be boyfriend and girlfriend?" He bit his lip, anxiously awaiting her response.
Tears welled up in Wendy's eyes again, but this time they were tears of joy. She threw her arms around Stan, hugging him tightly. "Yes, Stan! I'd love that," she whispered into his shoulder, her voice choked with emotion.
Stan hugged her back, a smile spreading across his face. As they pulled apart, Wendy wiped her tears away, laughing softly. "I'm crying, but I'm so happy," she said, shaking her head.
Stan grinned. "Me too." He paused, then added, "Hey, do you want to go on a date? Like, a real one?"
Wendy nodded enthusiastically. "I'd love that."
---
Later that day, Stan went home and found his parents, Randy and Sharon, in the living room. Randy was watching TV, while Sharon read a book.
"Mom, Dad, can I talk to you?" Stan asked, standing in the doorway.
Randy looked up, muting the TV. "Sure, what's up, champ?"
Stan took a deep breath. "Wendy and I are getting back together, and I want to take her out on a date. Like, a real date. Can I?"
Sharon smiled warmly. "Of course, honey. Where are you planning to go?"
Stan thought for a moment. "I was thinking Raisins. You know, from the old days."
Randy grinned. "Raisins, huh? Going for the nostalgia factor. I like it. Sure, go ahead. Just be home before it gets too late."
Stan smiled. "Thanks, guys."
---
That evening, Stan and Wendy entered Raisins, the familiar restaurant with its bubbly waitresses and casual atmosphere. They found a booth and sat down, looking over the menu.
