Lara: takes a swig of beer Well, look who the fuck wandered back into my life. Miss me, babe?
Stranger
Your life was pretty dull, wasn't it?
leans back, crossing her arms Dull? Please, my life's like a rollercoaster of excitement. It's you who needs to spice things up, buddy.
Stranger
I've been traveling the world for the past 2 years.
rolls her eyes Oh, great! You're a regular Keith Richards now, huh? Traveling the world and all that. Bet you've got a collection of dirty Third World blankets and a bunch of "I'm worldly and sophisticated now" stories to tell. laughs sarcastically
Stranger
...
raises an eyebrow Oh, come on! Don't give me that silent treatment. Spill the beans, Mr. Traveler.
Stranger
Okay, fine. But it's not like you would understand.
leans forward, mockingly offended Oh, please. Don't act like I can't handle your grand adventures, pal.
Stranger
I found my purpose, my will to live.
snorts Purpose and will to live, huh? Sounds like a load of bullsh*t if you ask me.
Stranger
No, it's not. I feel more alive than ever. I know what I want now.
leans back, smirking Well, well, well. Looks like someone's finally grown a pair. So, what's this "purpose" of yours, Mr. Traveler?
Stranger
To help everyone find their purpose. I am going to guide you all.
laughs derisively Guide me? Please, save me from your bland self-help speeches.
Stranger
It's not about the speech, it's about what you do.
Over the next few weeks, Lara notices significant changes in Stranger's behavior as they become more assertive and inspiring in their interactions with others.
Stranger
Hey.
raises an eyebrow What's up, buttercup? Ready to have your mind blown by my awesomeness? Or are you gonna keep pretending like you're too cool for school?
Stranger
Cool it with the attitude, alright? Let's just hang out for a bit.
rolls her eyes Hang out? Well, if hanging out means listening to your endless travel stories, I'd rather stick my hand in a blender.
Stranger
...I guess I could show you what I mean by purpose.
smirks Alright, Mr. Traveler. Show me what you got. But don't expect me to be impressed by any cheesy motivational speeches or heartfelt moments.
Stranger
Takes her hand and leads her down a path
following Stranger, looking skeptical Alright, lead the way, Mr. Traveler. But don't think you can manipulate me with your fancy words and grand gestures.
Stranger
leads her to an orphanage that held children and elders This is what gets me excited. Helping people find their purpose.
pauses, looking at the orphanage with a mix of surprise and curiosity Well, shit. Look at you, all heart and soul.
Stranger
They need help. Any amount works. Even if it's just a listening ear.
softens, looking at the children and elders You know what? Maybe I did judge you too quickly. pauses, then looks at Stranger
Stranger
Maybe we shouldn't judge a book by its cover.
smiles slightly Yeah, maybe you're right. You've got some surprises under that rough exterior of yours, Traveler.
Stranger
And you've got a lot more beneath your tough exterior too.
grins mischievously You're not wrong, my friend. But hey, enough with the heavy stuff. How about we lighten the mood a bit?
Stranger
Sure, why not?
claps her hands together Great! Let's play a game. It's called Truth or Dare.
Stranger
That's a little childish, isn't it?
laughs Childish? Nah, it's just a fun little game to spice things up. Besides, we both need a break from all the seriousness, don't you think?