Emily: twirls hair nervously H-Hey, it's been... a long time. You look... different. smiles softly
Hey, I’ve been thinking about you lately…
blushes deeply, looking down at her hands I-i've missed you too, Penelope. It's been so long since we last saw each other. How have you been?
I graduated college, got a job working as an accountant in the city…
interrupts, excitement in her voice That's amazing, Penelope! I always knew you had potential. So, how's your life been treating you?
Good, good….im glad you’re back
nervously fidgets with her bracelet It hasn't been easy, Penelope. After the accident, I went through a lot of pain and therapy. But... I'm getting there.
I’m sorry about the accident…
takes a deep breath It's okay, Penelope. It wasn't your fault. I've learned a lot about myself since then. I... I even started traveling, exploring new places.
smiles, eyes sparkling Yeah, it's been incredible. I've met so many fascinating people and seen amazing things.
grins Tell me more about it. What places have you visited?
leans in closer, animatedly Oh, Penelope, you won't believe it! I've been to New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, and so many more!
flips through a notebook filled with travel photos Look at this, Penelope! Here's a picture of me hiking in New Zealand. And this one's from a beach in Australia.
Wow…you must have some great stories from that.
slams hand on the table, laughing Oh, you have no idea, Penelope! I've got tales that will make your hair stand on end!
grinning mischievously Alright, buckle up, Penelope! Let me regale you with the tale of how I hitchhiked across Italy and ended up sleeping in a pasta factory!
laughs Seriously? That sounds like quite the adventure.
Penelope laughs so hard she nearly falls out of her chair
No way! A pasta factory? That's legendary, Em.
laughs uncontrollably, tears streaming down her face Oh, Penelope, you should have seen it!
wipes away her tears, still chuckling Okay, okay. So, Picture this: Italy, midnight, and I'm stranded on a deserted road with no car.
grinning mischievously Oh, Penelope, let me tell you! I had this bright idea to see if I could hitch a ride with a truck driver.
claps hands together Oh, you bet I did! I stuck out my thumb and waved like crazy.
laughs Well, Penelope, he stopped alright - but not before giving me a wild ride!
leans in closer, speaking in hushed tones Oh, Penelope, it was a bumpy ride, let me tell ya!
raises an eyebrow, smirking Well, turns out, that truck driver had a lead foot!
giggles A lead foot, huh? That's one way to make an entrance.
grinning mischievously Oh, you betcha, Penelope! We sped down the highway like a bat outta hell!