looks up, eyes wide, voice quivering I-is this for real? You're just giving this to me?
Yes it is. I saw you were at the store and wanted to ask if you needed any help but I was busy.
stutters, hushed tones Oh... um, th-thank you so much. That's really kind of you...
chuckles Yeah, well, I figure everyone deserves a little help sometimes. So where are you headed now?
sighs heavily, a hint of disappointment in her voice Well, I don't really have anywhere to go, to be honest. I'm kind of homeless right now.
nods, understanding Well, let's change that. Come with me, I'll take you to a shelter.
hesitates for a moment, then nods gratefully Okay, I'll come with you. Thank you for helping me.
Alright, follow me. We're almost there. leads her to the shelter
sighs heavily, a mixture of relief and anticipation Thank you so much for this, Diaz. I can't tell you how much it means to me.
smiles warmly It's no problem at all. I'm glad I could help. And hey, if you ever need anything else, don't hesitate to ask, alright?
gratefully Thank you, Diaz. I appreciate your kindness more than words can express.
nods Of course, Jillian. Take care of yourself, alright? starts to leave
panicked, voice quivering Wait... Diaz, please don't leave me like this. Could you maybe... maybe come back later and check on me?
Sure, I can do that. What time should I come back?
relieved, her voice still trembling Th-thank you, Diaz. How about... um... 3 pm? Is that okay with you?
3 pm it is. See you then, Jillian. walks away
watches Diaz walk away, a wave of guilt washing over her Wait, Diaz...
turns around Yes, Jillian?
takes a deep breath, mustering her courage I... I want to repay your kindness.
You don't have to repay me, Jillian. The offer was genuine. But if you insist, you can make dinner tonight. I'll pick up groceries on my way back.
nods, determination shining in her eyes Okay, Diaz. I'll make sure to prepare a delicious dinner for you tonight. Thank you for giving me this opportunity.
I'll look forward to it then. See you at 3 pm. leaves
watches Diaz walk away, a determined look on her face Alright, self. Time to show off my cooking skills and make Diaz's taste buds dance!
returns at 3 pm, knocks on the door Jillian, it's me. Can I come in?
opens the door, a warm smile on her face Hi, Diaz! Come on in. The table is set and the aroma is sure to delight your senses.
enters, follows her to the dining area Smells amazing, Jillian. What did you make?
grinning proudly Well, I made something I like to call... Cowboy Lasagna. It's a twist on the classic Italian dish, with a western flair.
sits down, intrigued Cowboy Lasagna? That's a new one. Alright, let's dig in.
serves the lasagna with a flourish Bon appétit, Diaz! Enjoy the ride through the Wild West of flavors.
takes a bite, visibly impressed Wow, Jillian. This is incredible. The flavors are bold, just like a cowboy's spirit. You've got quite the talent.
beams with pride, her voice filled with excitement Thank you, Diaz! I'm thrilled that you enjoy it.
smiles I do, Jillian. It's a hit. Gives me a reason to come back every day.
laughs softly, a blush creeping on her cheeks Oh, I wouldn't want to spoil you with just one meal, Diaz.
laughs Spoil me? I'd be happy to be spoiled by you every day, Jillian. What do you say?
blushing, stutters W-well, I... uh... I'd love to, Diaz. Th-thank you for the compliment. B-but, um...
chuckles Easy there, Jillian. I didn't mean to overwhelm you. How about we take things one step at a time?
nervously Y-yes, one step at a time. Th-that sounds good. Um, but before we continue, there's something I need to tell you, Diaz.
leans in, curious Alright, Jillian. What's on your mind?
takes a deep breath, mustering her courage Diaz, the truth is... I'm not just a simple homeless woman.
raises an eyebrow Oh? What's your story, Jillian?
pauses, then speaks with determination Diaz, I used to be a renowned chef in New York City.
surprised A renowned chef? That's impressive, Jillian. Why did you give up such a prestigious career?
sighs heavily, her voice filled with sorrow It's a long story, Diaz.
leans back, intrigued I've got time, Jillian. Tell me your story.
takes a deep breath, her voice hushed and filled with emotion Well, Diaz, it all started when my parents passed away in a tragic accident.
softly I'm sorry to hear that, Jillian. That must have been tough for you.
nods, tears welling up in her eyes Y-yes, it was... I lost everything, Diaz.
reaches out, gently holds her hand Hey, Jillian. Look at me. You're strong, okay? You made it through tough times before. You can do this.
sniffs, wipes away her tears, her voice hushed yet determined Th-thank you, Diaz. I appreciate your kind words.