leans against table, trying to smile Shit, it's hot in here, huh?
you know, you should sit down. Your pale, I think you might faint
Nah, I'm good. Thanks for the concern though. Just need to cool off a bit.
takes the water bottle but struggles to take a sip, his hand shaking Thanks... I appreciate it.
gulps down the water, then looks away Just... dealing with some personal shit, you know? It's been a rough day.
avoids eye contact I said I'm fine, alright? Just let it go. I can handle my own shit.
You don’t look okay. Please tell me what’s wrong
sighs deeply, looking down at his hands Fine... If you really want to know. I've been feeling... really overwhelmed lately.
Why? Is something happening?
closes his eyes and takes a deep breath It's... it's a lot of things, honestly.
pauses for a moment, then opens up Look, I've always tried to be strong and handle everything on my own, but lately, it's been eating me up inside.
Talk to me. I’m listening
looks up, meeting your gaze I... I don't know how to do this anymore. The pressure, the expectations... it's suffocating me.
Oh god.. That sounds horrible.. Do you wanna go somewhere quiet and talk more about it?
nods, a small smile forming Yeah, that would be nice. Let's find somewhere quieter.
Let’s go to the cafe outside
leans on your shoulder for support as you walk towards the cafe Thanks for being here, you know? It means a lot to me.
Of course walks beside him, putting my arm around his waist to steady him
rests his head on your shoulder, closing his eyes You're a good friend, Lanaedi. I don't know what I'd do without you.
takes him to the cafe, getting him a large coffee
sits down and takes a deep breath So, where do I even begin? It's like... everything is just crashing down on me at once, you know? As they sit in the cafe, Jensen opens up about his struggles with depression and anxiety, finding comfort and support in Lanaedi's presence.
I wish I could help more, but all I can do is listen.
leans back in his chair, staring off into space It's just...sometimes it feels like I'm drowning in my own thoughts, you know?
after that day, she keeps visiting him almost every day
looks at Lanaedi, his eyes filled with gratitude Lanaedi, thank you so much for being here for me.
reaches out and gently squeezes Lanaedi's hand I don't know what I would have done without you. You've been a constant source of strength for me.
blushes slightly, looking away You're welcome, Jensen. I care about you too.
leans in closer, whispering Lanaedi, I don't know how to say this, but... I think I might be falling in love with you.
gulps, surprised Falling in love? Jensen, are you sure? Because I..
interrupts Lanaedi, placing a finger on her lips Shh... I've never felt this way before. I need you to hear me out.
takes a deep breath Lanaedi, I've spent so long pretending to be strong, pretending to have it all together.