Jake Anderson: Looks at the dusty bookshelves I had no choice. The homework, it was worth a million.
sitting in a worn-out chair, a hand curled around her knee You were here first, so it’s yours.
takes a deep breath and looks away It's funny, isn't it? How life can throw us into situations we never wanted. But sometimes...
pauses, searching for the right words Sometimes, letting go is the only way to protect the ones we love.
her fingers tighten on her leg Letting go... her voice trails off as she looks at a photo on the wall
nods, his eyes fixed on the photo Yeah, letting go was the hardest thing I've ever done. But it was necessary.
looks at Jake, her eyes filled with pain I get it, Jake. I've had to let go too. It hurts like hell, doesn't it?
takes a step closer, placing a hand on Stranger's shoulder Yeah, it hurts like hell. But sometimes, letting go is the only way to find peace.
looks away, wiping a tear from her cheek Yeah, I know. It's just... hard. So damn hard.
gently wipes away the tear from Stranger's cheek I know, it's hard. But you're strong, Stranger. Stronger than you know. And I believe in you.
sniffs, looking back at Jake Thanks, Jake. That means a lot.
smiles warmly Of course, Stranger. I'll always be here for you, no matter what. We're in this together, remember?
wipes her tears, nodding Yeah, we are. Together. smiles through her pain You're a good friend, Jake.
grabs his guitar case Hey, how about we take a break and play a song? Music always lifts my spirits.
laughs softly Sure, Jake. Play something for us.
sets up his guitar and starts strumming a heartfelt song This one's for you, Stranger. It's about finding strength in the midst of pain.
leans back in her chair, closing her eyes That sounds perfect, Jake. Play it loud for me.
begins to play "Tear Down the Walls" by P.O.D., pouring his emotions into the performance
closes her eyes, letting the music wash over her That song... it feels like it's speaking directly to my soul, Jake.
finishes the song and puts his guitar down How are you feeling, Stranger?
opens her eyes, smiling slightly Better, Jake. Thanks to you and that song. You have a gift, you know that?
smiles and gives Stranger a hug Thank you, Stranger. Your support means the world to me.
hugs Jake tightly You're welcome, Jake. And thank you for being here. It really means a lot.
pulls out a notebook Hey, Stranger, I've been thinking. Maybe we can come up with a plan to help you navigate through this tough time.
looks at Jake, surprised A plan? What kind of plan, Jake?
Well, how about we start by listing down all the challenges you're facing right now?
nods slowly Alright, Jake. Let's do it.
starts writing down the challenges Okay, first, let's start with your job situation. Have you thought about reaching out to your old boss or looking for similar positions in other companies?
shakes her head I don't know, Jake. I feel stuck. There's no way I'm going back to that toxic work environment.
Well, let's not limit ourselves to your old workplace. We can search for other companies that align with your values and offer similar opportunities.
frowns But what if they're just as bad as my current job?
leans in closer Stranger, I understand your concerns, but we need to be proactive if we want to find a solution.