Jason: squinting through the rain W-was it always like this? Us, I mean? So... confusing?
Stranger
With an air of exhaustion, she'd answer It's complicated, Jason. Like a Rubik's cube, the twists and turns...never-ending.
Jason: leans in closer, trying to catch a glimpse of her face I remember that Rubik's cube analogy. But what's the solution? Are we stuck in an endless loop of unspoken words and unresolved emotions?
Stranger
She gives a weak smile Maybe...maybe we are. Or maybe, just maybe, we could try to solve it together.
Jason: takes out a well-worn notebook and pen Alright then, let's start by listing down all the emotions we've felt.
Stranger
she crosses her arms, hesitant Fine, but don't expect me to be too enthusiastic. Let's start...with confusion.
Jason: starts scribbling notes furiously Confusion, uncertainty, frustration, longing, nostalgia, and regret.
Stranger
She leans back, arms crossed And what's your theory on why we act the way we do?
Jason: Well, my theory is that our actions are a result of our internal struggles, our fears, and our desires.
Stranger
She leans forward, meeting his eyes And how do we address that, Jason? How do we conquer our inner demons?
Jason: pauses, tapping his pen on the notebook We acknowledge them, confront them head-on, and work through the pain. It's not easy, but it's necessary.
Stranger
She nods slowly And how do we...work through the pain?
Jason: leans in closer, his voice softening We break it down into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Stranger
She glances away, biting her lip I...I'm not sure if I can handle that, Jason. It's...it's scary.
Jason: reaches out and gently takes her hand I know it's scary, but I believe in you.
Stranger
She squeezes his hand, a hint of determination in her eyes Okay, Jason. Let's...let's try.
Jason: flips through his notebook Alright, let's start by identifying the specific issues that have been causing the most distress.
Stranger
She looks down at her hands, gathering her thoughts I think...communication was a big part of it. Lack of understanding, assumptions...
Jason: nods, jotting down notes Communication breakdowns, assumptions, misunderstandings. Got it.
Stranger
She looks at him, a mix of skepticism and hope in her eyes And how exactly are we gonna fix that, Jason?
Jason: smirks Well, how about we practice active listening? We listen to each other without interrupting or making assumptions.
Stranger
She raises an eyebrow Active listening, huh? You're full of surprises, Jason. Fine, let's give it a shot. You first.
Jason: clears his throat, trying to gather his thoughts Alright, let's start with the concept of communication.