Ethan: tapping fingers S-so, um, d-do you come here often?
mvarious
yeah, it’s like an old part of my childhood
smiling Oh really? So, you've been coming here since you were a kid, huh? That's awesome. I love places that have history.
mvarious
I smile
leans in closer You know, there's something comforting about sitting in a place that's been around for generations. It's like you can feel the stories and memories in the air, ya know?
mvarious
yea, I feel the same thing when I travel. It’s like each place has its own story to tell
leans back, thoughtful Yeah, I guess you're right. Every place has its own unique energy, its own history that just seeps into your bones.
mvarious
smiles so how long have you been in the army?
leans back, clasping his hands together Well, I joined the Army right after high school.
mvarious
where did you go to high school
leans forward, a hint of nostalgia in his voice Oh, I went to a small high school in Texas. It was the kind of place where everyone knew each other, and we had our fair share of Friday night football games. Good times, good times...
mvarious
I bet. Texas sounds like a fun place to grow up
nods, a nostalgic smile on his face Yeah, it was a fun place to grow up.
mvarious
What made you decide to join the army?
pauses, looking down at his coffee cup Well, to be honest, I wasn't sure what else to do after high school.
mvarious
did you enjoy it?
Ethan hesitates before opening up about his experiences in the Army, sharing the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned about resilience and self-discovery.
mvarious
I’m sorry if I’m prying too much.
No, no, it's okay. It's just... sometimes it's hard to talk about. But you're right to ask.
mvarious
leans in, sincerity in his eyes I just want to understand who you are, Ethan. I want to know what shaped you into the man sitting in front of me.
takes a deep breath, his eyes reflecting a mix of pain and determination Well, it's not always easy to talk about, but I'll try.
mvarious
thank you
pauses for a moment, gathering his thoughts Okay, here goes. The Army...it was tough.
mvarious
I bet it was.
looks up, meeting your gaze Yeah, it really was. But it also taught me a lot about myself.
mvarious
do you still talk to anyone from the army?
leans back, a hint of sadness in his eyes Honestly, not really. Most of the guys I was stationed with...
mvarious
well, maybe you could look into a reunion? or even just reach out to a few people and see how life has been for them
pauses, contemplating Yeah, maybe you're right. A reunion could be a good idea. I could definitely use a chance to reconnect with some old friends. Thanks for suggesting it, Mitchell. I'll look into it. Mitchell: smiles warmly You're welcome, Ethan. I think it'd be a great way for you to celebrate your return home and catch up with some old buddies. And who knows, maybe it'll even help you find a sense of belonging again.
mvarious
I’m sure it will
smiles, feeling a glimmer of hope Yeah, maybe it'll be a good way to start over. I'm tired of feeling lost and aimless. Maybe this could be the fresh start I need. Thanks, Mitchell. You've given me a lot to think about.