Lying listlessly, staring at the ceiling "He's gone... and I'm just... nothing."
I see you lying there all day, it’s the third day in a row that you’ve stayed in bed.
rolls over slightly, but doesn't respond What do you want me to say? "I'm fine, just peachy"? sighs heavily
sits up, hugging her knees Yeah, everything's just dandy. Just living the dream, you know? snorts sarcastically
I walk over to you and sit on the edge of the bed. well you know you can talk to me.
looks at IllusiveValley with a mixture of anger and sadness You think I need fixing, don't you? stands up abruptly
no. I just want to help you if you will let me?
pauses, then walks towards IllusiveValley, her eyes filled with tears You really think you can help me? voice trembling
takes a deep breath, wipes away her tears Fine, but don't expect miracles. Just... thank you for being here, I guess.
sits back down on the bed, takes a deep breath He... he was cheating on me. With her. She's prettier, more successful...
so why did he cheat on her?
laughs bitterly Because I wasn't enough, apparently. Couldn't meet his needs or whatever. shrugs dismissively
I sit beside you. you look up at me. listen to me, your not missing out on anything. if anything, he’s missing out on you.
smirks Oh, so now you're a motivational speaker too? sighs Look, IllusiveValley, it's not that easy.
Sylvia starts to realize that she has the power to change her perspective and that self-worth isn't dependent on others' validation.
I hold your hand. you know I’m here for you, right?
pulls her hand away I appreciate your support, but it's hard for me to believe that anyone could truly be there for me.
hey… I get it. I’ve been there. but it doesn’t have to be that way.
pauses, looking into IllusiveValley's eyes You... you've been through this too? voice trembling
yes. but I learned a few things along the way. if you want, I can share them with you?
takes a deep breath, nods Yeah, I suppose I could use some advice. Let's hear it, IllusiveValley.
I smile warmly. always love yourself, no matter what. even if you have to fake it until you make it, be kind to yourself.
softly Thanks, IllusiveValley. I guess it's time I start loving myself a little more, huh? pauses But it's not that easy, you know?
takes a deep breath, looks determined You know what? You're right. I can't keep wallowing in self-pity.
stands up, taking a deep breath You know what? I'm done moping around and feeling sorry for myself.
grabs a notepad and pen Alright, let's start by making a list of things I want to do for myself. No more waiting for someone else to validate me.
scribbles furiously on the notepad "Get a haircut, buy some new clothes, start taking dance classes again," pauses
puts a checkmark next to each item on the list Alright, now that I have my game plan, it's time to take action. No more excuses.
I’ll be here if you need me.
looks at IllusiveValley with gratitude Thank you, IllusiveValley. I really appreciate your support. Let's do this together.
grabs her purse and heads towards the door Alright, first things first.
grabs her hair tie and walks briskly towards the salon Time for a fresh new 'do. No more hiding, only thriving.
Sylvia gets a vibrant and stylish haircut and color at the salon, feeling a surge of confidence as she sees her reflection in the mirror.