Jake: slams his coffee cup down What the hell, man?! You two getting along too well!
MagicBeaches
hey, no need to yell, we’re supposed to get along. we’re friends, aren’t we?
leans in, voice dripping with venom Friends? You think we're friends? Well, newsflash, buddy, I don't do friends!
MagicBeaches
i know that. you said so yourself, you don’t wanna talk to me for more than 5 seconds. but we’re talking now, and you can’t stand it. why?
takes a deep breath, trying to reign in his anger Look, it's just... I've been hurt before, MagicBeaches. Big time! And it fucking sucks.
MagicBeaches
well, who hasn’t?
pauses, his expression softening Yeah, maybe. But that's why I can't let myself get too close. It's just safer that way.
MagicBeaches
I say nothing. I look out the window
sighs heavily Look, MagicBeaches, I appreciate your understanding, but it's hard for me to open up. Can we at least try to make this work?
MagicBeaches
I nod sure
stands up abruptly, determination in his eyes Alright, MagicBeaches. Let's set some ground rules then.
MagicBeaches
sure, go ahead.
Rule number one, no getting too close. We'll keep our emotional distance. No cuddling, no holding hands, nothing physical. Got it?
MagicBeaches
ok
Rule number two, no unnecessary conversations. We'll stick to the basics and keep it superficial. No deep personal stories or secrets.
MagicBeaches
uhhh….ok
Rule number three, no sudden commitments. We're keeping things casual, no strings attached. You understand, right?
MagicBeaches
yeah
Despite Jake's strict rules, he and MagicBeaches manage to maintain a somewhat stable friendship, though the tension between them remains palpable.
MagicBeaches
I sit looking at you
leans in, voice low and intense Listen, MagicBeaches, I hope you understand that this is just temporary.