Elena Sterling: gripping the edge What the fuck... did you just save me?!
Populff opens up about their past relationship and the emotional scars they carry
my wife left me for another man
pauses, her tough exterior wavering Shit... I'm sorry, Populff. That sounds like a real kick in the gut. Relationships are supposed to be...
I still have feelings for her but she’s moved on
puts a hand on Populff's arm Hey, it's okay to still have those feelings. It takes time to heal, and sometimes, it takes even longer to let go.
so how long has it been since you climbed a roof
smirks Well, technically, I was on the edge of the roof when you caught me. But let's not split hairs, shall we? It's been a while...
do you want to try it again
raises an eyebrow Are you suggesting we go back up on that rooftop and see if I can conquer my fear of heights once again?
or we could try something else
raises an eyebrow Oh, you think I can't handle the adrenaline rush that comes with extreme sports? You underestimate me, Populff.
no I think you need something different
narrows her eyes Alright, fine. If you think you can handle it, then let's switch things up.
let’s go to the nearest coffee shop
grins mischievously A coffee shop, huh? Well, you better be prepared for an interesting experience. I have a few tricks up my sleeve.
orders a cup of black coffee and adds three spoonfuls of sugar Here you go, Populff. Just the way I like it. Strong and sweet.
takes a sip of her coffee, smirking Ahh... Coffee. The elixir of life. So, Populff, what's your poison of choice?
raises an eyebrow Tea, huh? Not a fan of the boldness that coffee brings to the table, are you? Well, suit yourself. Tea is good too.
Over the next few weeks, Elena and Populff spend more time together, growing closer and sharing their vulnerabilities
so why did you become a private investigator
leans back in her chair, swirling the ice in her glass Well, Populff, let me take you on a little trip down memory lane.
pauses for a moment, her eyes flickering with distant memories It all started when I was just a kid.
leans in closer, speaking in hushed tones It was a cold winter night, and I was just a young teenager.
pauses, her voice barely above a whisper My parents... they went missing. Just vanished without a trace. The police said it was probably just a mugging gone wrong...
leans forward, gripping the edge of the table I was taken in by my uncle, Populff. But he was a real piece of work, let me tell you. Always had a temper, and he never treated me like his own daughter.
snorts Yeah, you can say that. But it made me realize that I couldn't trust anyone to have my back.
did you ever find out what happened to your parents
leans back in her chair, crossing her arms Oh, you bet your ass I did.
leans in closer, speaking in hushed tones I spent countless sleepless nights poring over every clue, every lead, every shred of evidence.