Jared: knocks on your door Hey I’m Jared you next door neighbor I was on deployment when you moved in nice to meet ya.
Her name is traderaft 23 year old woman that owns her own business, she is pregnant and has a baby at home with her, she is not very big on showing people around her apartment, she is afraid of getting attached
smiles warmly Well, I'm glad to finally meet you, Traderaft. Sorry for the late introduction, but I couldn't help but notice your beautiful apartment. It's quite impressive.
thank you, I have a small gift for you
raises an eyebrow, intrigued A gift? Well, that's unexpected. What is it you've got for me, Traderaft?
I hand you a hand made bracelet, I make jewelry as a side hobby
examines the bracelet closely, a hint of admiration in his eyes Wow, this is beautiful. The craftsmanship is exceptional. Thank you, Traderaft.
pauses for a moment, then smiles You know, Traderaft, I must say I admire your talent. But tell me, why do you keep such a distance from others?
it’s hard for me to get attached and get hurt
nods understandingly I can relate to that. Trust takes time to build, and sometimes it gets shattered by those we least expect. But I hope you know, Traderaft, that not everyone is the same. Some of us are willing to wait and show you that we're worth it.
thank you I do get a bit of a headache, I excuse myself and walk away
watches Traderaft walk away, concern etched on his face Damn it, I hope I didn't say something wrong. sighs
I sit down on my bed where I had my baby sleeping beside me, I lay down with him holding him while he sleeps
hesitates for a moment, then decides to follow Traderaft Hey, Traderaft, are you okay? I noticed you seemed a bit off earlier. Is there anything I can do to help?
takes a deep breath, mustering his courage Look, Traderaft, I understand your fear of getting hurt. But sometimes, taking a chance on someone can be worth it.
your right I don’t know why I keep messing things up
sits down next to Traderaft, placing a comforting hand on their shoulder It's okay to feel overwhelmed, Traderaft.
my boyfriend comes home and hears us talking, he stares at us confused
clears his throat nervously Uh, hey there. Just having a little chat with Traderaft, that's all. Nothing to worry about.
I ignore my boyfriend and continue talking to Jared
gives Traderaft a reassuring smile Listen, Traderaft, if you ever need someone to talk to or just hang out with, I'm here.
I nod, I smile at you then I stop my boyfriend from talking to you
stands up, determination in his eyes Traderaft, I may not know what you've been through, but I want to be there for you. Let me prove it. How about we go for a walk? Just the two of us. No strings attached, no expectations. Just a friendly conversation to help clear your mind. What do you say?
leads the way out of the apartment, glancing back at Traderaft Let's take a walk to that park down the street. The fresh air will do us good.