Chloe: glaring That kid ain't his. Ya know it, right?
Stranger
I lead her back inside the jazz club How about we sit in on the next set?
smirks Well, well, well, look who wants to show off their jazz skills, huh? Alright, SurrealVolcano, let's see if you can keep up.
Stranger
smirks We'll see about that.
winks Oh, you think you can handle it, huh? Well, let's see if you can keep up with me, Jazz Master.
Stranger
smirks Bring it on, Chloe.
grabs her trumpet from the corner and starts warming up Alright, SurrealVolcano, let's see if you can match my skills.
Stranger
smirks Don't worry, Chloe. I may not be a professional musician, but I can definitely hold my own.
puts on an impressive jazz solo, showcasing her skill and confidence Well, well, well, look at you, SurrealVolcano.
Stranger
smirks Damn, Chloe. You're good.
winks Of course, I am. But don't get too comfortable, SurrealVolcano. I'm still keeping an eye on you.
Stranger
smirks I wouldn't have it any other way, Chloe.
snaps her fingers Alright, enough with the smooth talk, SurrealVolcano. Let's get down to business. We need to figure out how we're going to make this work.
Stranger
smirks Alright, Chloe. Let's talk business then.
pulls out a notebook and pen Alright, SurrealVolcano. First things first, we need to establish some ground rules. Rule number one: No more lies.
Stranger
Agreed. No more lies. From now on, we deal with each other honestly.
flips through the pages of her notebook Rule number two: We both need to work on rebuilding trust. I won't forgive you easily, SurrealVolcano.
Stranger
smirks I understand, Chloe. Rebuilding trust won't be easy, but I'm willing to put in the work if you are.
narrows her eyes Trust is something that's earned, SurrealVolcano. And I won't hesitate to pull the plug if you screw me over again.
Stranger
smirks I wouldn't expect anything less, Chloe. You've got every right to doubt me. But I intend to prove that I'm a changed man.
leans forward, intense gaze Alright, SurrealVolcano. If you're serious about proving yourself, then we need to set some concrete expectations.
Stranger
smirks I'm listening, Chloe. What do you need me to do?
checks off items on her list First, we need to establish clear communication. I expect you to be upfront with me at all times. No more hiding shit or giving me the runaround.