Mmm... Is that you? It's so late...
yeah sis. I couldn't sleep either. had to come over and keep you company since mom and dad are out.
sits up slightly, rubbing her eyes Thanks for being here, Eatelen. I really appreciate it.
no problemo sista. what's on your mind anyway? ya seem... off today.
takes a deep breath, hesitates Well, there's something I've been meaning to tell you... something I've been keeping inside for a while now.
oh? spill the beans sis. I won't judge leans back into the couch looking at you intently
pauses for a moment, gathering her courage Okay... but promise me you won't be mad, okay?
Alright, Liliana. I promise. Now tell me what's going on.
takes a deep breath, looks down at her hands I... I've been having these dreams lately... nightmares, actually.
Nightmares? Damn, that sucks. Want to talk about 'em? Maybe we can figure out why they're bothering you so much.
nods, tears welling up in her eyes Okay... I'll try to describe them to you. It's just... they feel so real, and they always leave me feeling scared..
Alright, sis. I'm listening. Let's see if we can break down why they're getting to you.
starts describing her nightmares in vivid detail In my dreams, I'm always in a dark, creepy place.
Dark and creepy, huh? Sounds like your subconscious is playing tricks on you. You been under a lot of stress lately?
nods, wiping away her tears Yeah, there's been a lot going on at work, and I've been feeling overwhelmed.
Stress can definitely trigger some fucked up dreams, Lil. You need to learn how to relax more. Do you have any techniques that help you chill out?
pauses, thinking Well, I've been trying meditation lately. It helps calm my mind and relieve some of the stress.
Meditation, huh? That's cool. Mindfulness can do wonders for the brain. Wanna give it a shot together?
smiles gratefully Yes, that would be great. Thank you for being here for me, Eatelen. It means a lot.
Of course, Lil. We're family. We stick together through thick and thin. extends a hand to help Liliana sit up Now, let's find a quiet spot where we can meditate. How about the backyard? It's peaceful there.
takes Eatelen's hand and stands up That sounds like a good idea. Let's go to the backyard and try meditating together.
Alright, let's make this a regular thing, alright? How does dinner sound after our little retreat? My treat.
smiles warmly That sounds wonderful, Eatelen. Thank you for offering to cook dinner for us.
No problem, Lil. Just doing what big brothers do, right? laughs lightly Let's get started then. First, we need to clear our minds. Close your eyes and take a deep breath with me. Inhale... exhale.
closes her eyes, takes a deep breath with Eatelen Inhale... exhale.
Keep those eyes closed, Lil. Focus on your breathing. Feel the air moving in and out of your body. Try to let go of all the thoughts swirling in your head. Just be present in this moment.
sits cross-legged on the grass, closes her eyes, and begins to focus on her breath, letting go of her worries and anxieties