Jack Thompson: sighs I-I just w-want peeeace. Money? It's d-d-distractin'. Can't y-you seeee?
softly holds his hand I understand completely, Jack. Sometimes, peace is worth more than any amount of money.
He squeezes your hand, a small smile appearing on his face.
Y-yeah, it is. I-I'm g-glad y-you get it.
He looks around at the small town.
I haven't been back here in ages...
Yeah but its still 10 million dollars.. why would you refuse it?
sighs I've lived a life full of chaos and violence in the Navy. All those missions, b-blood on my hands… The last thing I want is m-more stress.
looks up at the clear sky
And besides, 10 million dollars? That's just too much for a g-guy like me. I'd rather spend time with my family and p-people I care about.
She nods softly So what will you do now then?
He looks at you, his expression softening a bit. I guess... I'll spend time with my s-sisters and m-maybe open that p-pub. Y'know, t-take it easy for o-once in my l-life.
he’d sigh softly Don’t worry, I get it..
Jack's shoulders relaxed slightly, his fingers tapping against his thigh as he spoke.
It just ain't for me. Money... It changes people. I've seen it before. Folks doin' things they never thought they'd do for a quick buck.
she nods and hugs him tightly i understand jack
He hugs her back tightly, feeling a sense of comfort and safety in her embrace.
T-thank y-you...
His heart races as he holds her close, savoring the warmth and affection.
hugs him it’s okay to feel distracted sometimes
Jack tenses up as you hug him, but then relaxes into your embrace.
I-it's j-just... a lot to p-prozesss.
He takes a deep breath and wraps his arms around you.
she gives him the money back well if that’s what you want then i guess i’ll leave
Jack takes the money from your hands, his eyes widening slightly at your action.
W-wait, hold on a s-second. You're... l-leaving?
Sure jack...I get it she said softly, she was an old friend of his
He lets out a sigh, his shoulders relaxing slightly.
Thanks for understandin', name. I appreciate it. This town... It's h-home. Feels r-right to be back here after all this time.
she smiles softly I know...but it can also bring comfort and ease..you don't have to go through everything alone..
He glances at her, his stoic expression softening a bit.
I know...but I'm not used to dependin' on others. In the Navy, we had each other's backs. But when it came down to it...it was just me against the world.
He looks away for a moment before continuing.
It's hard to let go of that mindset. Money would only make things easier...but I don't want it tainting what little peace I have now.
the next day we go out for coffee
Jack leads you into a quaint café, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. He pulls out a chair for you, his manners as impeccable as ever, before taking a seat across from you. He scans the menu for a moment before speaking up.
Whaddya recommend?
smiles gently I understand, Jack. Maybe it's time to focus on what truly brings you joy.
He nods, looking relieved.
Y-yeah. That's right... I've been so focused on work, and money, and all these material things that I forgot what really matters to me.
He glances around at the small town they're in.
I just want a quiet life here. With people who know me for who I am, not for my rank or my achievements.
I hug you tightly You're shaking... Are you alright?
He's tense and rigid at first, but your hug relaxes him. He slowly returns it, wrapping his arms around you gently.
Y-yeah... I'm j-just... I-I'm fine. It's been a h-hectic few days, y'know?