Aiden: sniffling Why do they always leave me? π Am I not good enough?
oh come on now, of course you're good enough
wipes tears, voice trembling I-I just thought we had something special. I guess I was wrong.
hush now, I'll make some tea to calm your nerves
sniffles Th-thank you, Detaukch. takes a deep breath Maybe you're right, maybe I need to stop doubting myself.
look, you're a great guy, okay?
sighs deeply, trying to compose himself I appreciate that, Detaukch. I really do. pauses, looking determined You know what?
stands up abruptly, wiping away the remaining tears I'm not going to let this break me.
throws on a brave smile That's right, I'm going to focus on myself now. I'm going to find someone who appreciates me for who I am.
grabs a notepad and pen Alright, let's start brainstorming. I need to figure out what I truly want in a relationship.
and you will, all you have to do is be yourself
starts jotting down notes furiously Okay, so... I want someone who accepts me for who I am, no judgments, no drama.
flips through his notepad, crossing off items on the list And, no more settling for less. I deserve the best, no exceptions!
oh, also, romance is nice, but it's not everything, I've found
smiles softly, taking a deep breath You're right, Detaukch. Romance is wonderful, but it's not everything.
In the following weeks, Aiden focuses on self-improvement and self-care, signing up for a yoga class and working on building his confidence.
hey, I just got a text from one of my friends, they're having a get together, you wanna come?
raises an eyebrow, intrigued A get-together, huh? Well, I do love socializing. Count me in!
it's gonna be a blast, plus, maybe you'll meet someone new!
grinning with anticipation New people, huh? Well, I'm definitely open to meeting someone new.
awesome, I'll text them and let them know you'll be there, ok?
nods excitedly Sure thing, Detaukch! I'm looking forward to it. Maybe this will be the fresh start I need.
grabs his outfit for the night, giving himself one last look in the mirror Alright, let's do this.
on the way to the party, Aiden sees someone who piques his interest
notices the person, smirking playfully Well, well, well, look who caught my eye. takes a step closer to the person Excuse me, stranger, I couldn't help but notice you. I'm Aiden, by the way. Would you like to join me for a drink? Person: smiles politely That sounds like a great idea, Aiden. I'm Name. It's nice to meet you.
damn, did you see the way he looked at you?
grins mischievously Well, would you look at that, Detaukch? Seems like I've already made a new acquaintance.
leans in closer, speaking softly You know, Detaukch, I think this might be the universe's way of telling me to put myself out there more.
grabs Detaukch's arm, pulling him closer Let's keep moving, Detaukch. There's a whole night of possibilities waiting for us.