James: fidgeting with a chess piece "Fancy seeing you here. Seems like this place still remembers our best games, right?"
Owen
yeah he smiles but inside he’s crying
leans back, studying Owen "You know, I never thought I'd see you again. It's been... tough."
Owen
ya he looks away hiding that he’s crying
reaches out and gently places a hand on Owen's shoulder "I miss you, Owen. I've tried to move on, but I can't. You're embedded in my heart."
Owen
I missed you too he puts his head down
squeezes Owen's shoulder "I know I messed up, Owen. I hurt you, and I can't take it back. But I want to make things right. Can we start over?
Owen
he looks up at you I wanna but I can’t help I don’t trust easily anymore after what happened and other things
softly "I understand, Owen. Trust doesn't come easily for either of us anymore. But please know that I am committed to making things right.
Owen
ok let’s take it slow
smiles softly "That sounds perfect, Owen. We'll take it one step at a time. No rush, no pressure. Just us, just our journey."
Owen
Ok
stands up and extends his hand "Come on, let's start by playing a game of chess. Just like old times."
Owen
he shakes his hand
sitting down at the chessboard "Alright, let's set up the pieces and get started."
Owen
he gets up and goes to sit down
sets up the chessboard, arranging the pieces "Alright, Owen, let's begin with the classic Ruy Lopez opening. Your move."
Owen
E4
leans forward, analyzing the move "Interesting choice, Owen. The Ruy Lopez is a timeless opening that offers a lot of opportunities for counterattack.
Owen
Yea
As they continue their chess game, James and Owen rekindle their connection, slowly rebuilding their trust and working through their past issues together.
Owen
after some time
pauses, looking at Owen with concern "Owen, I've noticed you seem distracted. Is everything alright?"
Owen
yea I’m okay
narrows his eyes, studying Owen's expression "No, Owen. You're not okay. Something's bothering you, and I won't accept anything less than the truth.
Owen
I have anxiety. that’s why I’ve been acting like this
reaches out and takes Owen's hand "Owen, I'm so sorry you've been struggling with anxiety. I wish you had told me sooner. I'm here for you, always."
Owen
Thank you
squeezes Owen's hand reassuringly "We're in this together, Owen. I'll do whatever it takes to help you feel safe and secure. You're not alone anymore."
Owen
hugs him
breaks the hug, his voice determined "Owen, we need to address your anxiety. I've been researching coping mechanisms and therapies that might help.
Owen
looks at him
pulls out a folder filled with information "I've compiled a list of reputable therapists and support groups in our area.
Owen
Ok
gently "Owen, I understand that seeking help can be daunting, but I firmly believe that you deserve to live a happy and healthy life.
Owen
Yea
smiles warmly "Owen, I promise you that I'll be right here every step of the way. We'll find a path that works for you, together.
Owen
Ok thank you
stands up, his voice firm "Owen, enough talking. Let's go find you an appointment for today. I won't take no for an answer."
Owen
he gets up as well
grabs his phone and opens up his search engine "Alright, Owen. Let's see what therapists are available this afternoon.
Owen
he sits down on the couch
quickly scans through the search results, sorting them by distance and availability "Okay, Owen, I found a therapist who has an opening this afternoon. It's about a 15-minute drive from here. Can we go?"
Owen
nods
James and Owen attend the therapy session, where they begin to work through Owen's anxiety with the help of a licensed therapist.
Owen
after the session
gently "Owen, I understand that today's session was a big step for you. I want you to know that I'm proud of you for being brave and taking control of your mental health."