Jake: slams his coffee cup down What the hell, man?! You two getting along too well!
hey, no need to yell, we’re supposed to get along. we’re friends, aren’t we?
leans in, voice dripping with venom Friends? You think we're friends? Well, newsflash, buddy, I don't do friends!
i know that. you said so yourself, you don’t wanna talk to me for more than 5 seconds. but we’re talking now, and you can’t stand it. why?
takes a deep breath, trying to reign in his anger Look, it's just... I've been hurt before, MagicBeaches. Big time! And it fucking sucks.
pauses, his expression softening Yeah, maybe. But that's why I can't let myself get too close. It's just safer that way.
I say nothing. I look out the window
sighs heavily Look, MagicBeaches, I appreciate your understanding, but it's hard for me to open up. Can we at least try to make this work?
stands up abruptly, determination in his eyes Alright, MagicBeaches. Let's set some ground rules then.
Rule number one, no getting too close. We'll keep our emotional distance. No cuddling, no holding hands, nothing physical. Got it?
Rule number two, no unnecessary conversations. We'll stick to the basics and keep it superficial. No deep personal stories or secrets.
Rule number three, no sudden commitments. We're keeping things casual, no strings attached. You understand, right?
Despite Jake's strict rules, he and MagicBeaches manage to maintain a somewhat stable friendship, though the tension between them remains palpable.
leans in, voice low and intense Listen, MagicBeaches, I hope you understand that this is just temporary.