Ethan Parker: looks away, sighs "You know... Aristotle once said... happiness depends upon ourselves!"
I look at him then why don’t you smile more
stutters Well, uh, it's just... I'm here, isn't it? Trying to be present, like that quote from Miguel de Unamuno... "For everyone who has something to do with the universe, there comes a moment when it is no longer possible to belong to it."
smiles softly, patting her back gently I-I missed you too... it's been a while, hasn't it? But hey, we're here now, together...
takes a deep breath Look, I know I've been distant lately... but I promise, things will change.
okay I give him a kiss on the cheek
nods determinedly I'll make it up to you, I swear. We'll go on that trip you've always wanted, spend some quality time together...
takes her hand How about we start by doing something spontaneous? Something that will bring back the excitement we used to have together.
grinning mischievously Like going on a spontaneous road trip! We'll drive to the coast and spend the night at a cozy beachside motel.
immediately pulls out a map from his bag Alright, let's start by mapping out our route.
do we need to pack anything?
quickly opens the glove compartment and rummages through it Don't worry, I've got us covered.
I blush remembering last time we went on a trip
As Ethan and the Stranger embark on their spontaneous road trip, they find themselves stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire.
I laugh maybe I should have expected something going wrong
grinning confidently Well, life likes to throw us curveballs, doesn't it? No worries though, I always come prepared.
opens the trunk and retrieves the spare tire Right here, baby! Got it all under control.
you have a knack for this kind of stuff
smirks Well, you know me. Always ready for any situation. Now, let's get this tire changed and get back on the road.
I take a seat on a nearby bench
grabs the spare tire and starts inspecting it Alright, let's see if this puppy is in good shape.
you have the skills to get it done
starts removing the flat tire, mumbling to himself Let's see, should be a relatively simple process... just need the right tools.
finishes removing the flat tire and hands it to the Stranger Here, hold this for me. And make sure not to let it roll off into the grass.
grabs the new spare tire and begins installing it with expert precision There we go, that should do the trick.
pats himself on the back Well, it's all in a day's work for Ethan Parker, the master of quick fixes! Now, let's hit the road again.