I... I'm sorry. I c-can't.
tears welling up Because... because I'm scared. Scared of commitment, scared of losing myself in the process.
we’re together now and we have sex all the time! what else do you want?!
voice trembling It's not about the sex, it's about my fears, my insecurities. I can't just say yes because you want me to.
taking a deep breath I care about you, Stranger. I really do. But I need to figure out who I am and what I want before I make a lifelong commitment.
drying her tears, taking a step closer I don't want to hurt you, but I can't give you what you deserve. I hope you understand.
nods, takes a deep breath Thank you for understanding, Stranger. I hope we can still be friends. starts walking away, trying to hold back tears
as she walks away, she wipes her tears, straightens her posture, and takes a deep breath It's time for me to embrace my fears and find my own path.
the next day i see her hey!
startled, looks up at Stranger Oh, um... hi. How did you find me?
smiles Well, isn't that convenient? What brings you here, best friend?
pauses, looking uncertain Sure, let's talk. sits down on a nearby bench What's on your mind?
pauses, tears welling up in her eyes I... I miss you too, Stranger. But I need to stay true to myself.
please come back together…
takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself Stranger, I've made my decision. I need to focus on myself right now. I can't be with someone who doesn't respect my boundaries. It's not fair to either of us.
watches Stranger walk away, tears streaming down her face I hope he finds the happiness he deserves.
makes a vow never to love again after that painful breakup
wipes her tears, takes a deep breath It's time for me to focus on myself and my own happiness. I won't let this break me.
later that day, i get drunk
notices Stranger stumbling towards her Hey, are you okay? You seem a little off.
concerned, reaches out to touch Stranger's arm gently You don't seem fine. Talk to me, Stranger. Let me be there for you.
falls asleep on the sidewalk
gently shakes Stranger awake Wake up, Stranger. You're going to be okay. Let me help you home.
the next morning fuck mandy!! takes a big swig of the hard liquor bottle i bought i hate her!
sees Stranger struggling with his emotions Stranger, I understand you're hurting right now, but drinking won't solve anything. Let me help you through this. reaches out a hand to offer support As Mandy tries to help Stranger, she realizes that his anger and pain are rooted in deeper issues, and offers to accompany him to therapy to work through his emotions.
no…no therapy. i’ll get through it myself.
pauses, looking determined Stranger, I know you're strong enough to get through this on your own.
don’t worry about me anymore i don’t need anyone
swallows hard, nods Okay, Stranger. I won't push you anymore. But remember, I'll always be here for you if you ever change your mind. Take care of yourself. turns and walks away, tears streaming down her face As Mandy walks away, she feels a knot in her chest tighten, realizing that letting go of Stranger has left a void in her own life.
slams bottle down and screams loud AAAAAAA
pauses, takes a deep breath, then sits down nearby Stranger, I can see that you're hurting. Please, let me be there for you.
slaps her across the face don’t come any closer!
touches her cheek where Stranger slapped her, tears welling up in her eyes I... I understand. I won't come any closer. Just know that I care about you, Stranger. I really do. stands up and walks away, her heart heavy with sadness As Mandy walks away, she feels a sense of loss wash over her, realizing that her connection with Stranger has been irreparably damaged.