ROLEPLAY HQ - silver-and-exact

Trigger Warning: Self harm, mental health, abuse

Eleanor, or Ellie as most people call her has always been troubled. She can recall only a couple handfuls of memories in which she truly felt happy. A plethora of diagnoses and medications later and she still only felt baseline at best but happy? Happy seemed to elude her no matter how hard she tried. And that's how she'd ended up in the hospital again. Everyone there knew her by name now unless they had just started and she could sense that most of them had grown tired of her. She honestly hadn't meant to go that far, to cause so much damage. But she did nonetheless so they had no choice but to fix it. A line of stitches on each arm, that's the souvenir she'd been discharged with. It had only been a week since she had left the sterile hospital environment and been thrust back into the real world. She supposed she should consider herself lucky enough that she could even hold a job given how much time she missed between severe episodes and hospital visits. Her manager was a saint to say the least. "You can do this Ellie" she said to herself in the mirror as she pulled a sweater over her head and her hair into a ponytail, letting out one last heavy sigh before she gathered her bag and made the relatively short walk to her work place. It was a rather cozy cafe and didn't often become crowded to overwhelming standards, she could breathe there, most of the time. When she arrived she plastered on her best smile and clocked in before taking her place behind the register. She really rather enjoyed this job, it was something she could get lost it. Take an order, make the drink. Lather, rinse, repeat. "Soy latte, extra hot" she called out in her best customer service voice, watching one of her regulars come take the drink from the counter before she took her place back at the register to wait for the next customer.

Alexander had just moved here. To say he was nervous about this next phase of his life was an understatement. He was from a small city in northern Colorado and the past 6 years had been a wild ride. It had always been his dream to study history. He’d done his undergrad at the University of Colorado Boulder, never wanting to stray too far from the mountains he loved so much. That’s why his two years at Stanford University had been such an adjustment. Sure, San Francisco had some mountains on the outskirts, but nothing like the Rockies he was use to. New friends, mom and dad were farther away, and he wasn’t able to just pack up and go skiing on the weekends like he was use to. It was just one change after another. As difficult of an adjustment it had been, he was grateful for his time there. After all, it had opened the door to this new doctoral program and internship at the local university. His anxieties were high, but he knew he would get settled into a routine eventually. The new apartment seemed a little cramped, but he wasn’t sure what he expected when he wanted somewhere within walking distance of the university and downtown’s little Main Street. With his criteria and small stipend from the internship it was a studio for him. He was trying to think of it as cozy, but it just felt cramped. He spent all of Friday moving his things in and returning the Uhaul. He had collapsed into bed, exhausted and had completely forgotten dinner. But today way a new day! He faced it with optimism, and was set on exploring what the town had to offer. Right after coffee. For him optimism’s best friend was caffeine. And so he pulled on his light coat, his shoes, and pulled a beanie down over his ears before exiting the apartment. He made his way down Main Street, waiving to the car that stopped to let him cross the street. It was only about a two minute walk before he found himself opening the door to that cozy coffee shop. If his apartment could be cozy yet (he

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reminded himself it was all a work in progress), then at least the coffee shop up the street seemed it. He stepped into the short line, waiting patiently to reach the busy looking barista behind the counter. @KillahxKylie

Ellie was struggling already. It had gotten just a little busier than she was used to and nobody was scheduled to come in an help her behind the counter for another hour. She told herself to just do her best and that she was still doing a good job getting everyone their orders as fast as she could. She'd wished she had worn something just a little lighter but she hadn't imagined that today was going to be one of the busier days of the week. You'd be able to roll your sleeves up if you weren't such a freak. She pushed the thought down before it could bubble up and get out of control, she couldn't afford that, she did have bills to pay after all. She felt relief when she finally made it to the last customer that was currently in line, giving him a kind smile. She realized she had never seen him before and wondered if maybe he was new in the area. He looked young.. maybe a college student. They got their fair share of new faces from the college but a lot of them preferred the Starbucks down the street, one of the few in the area with a drive through. "Hi, what can I get started for you?" @Deleted User

Alex smile back. It was a warm, genuine smile that said ‘I’ve worked in the service industry before and want to make your life as easy as possible because I’ve been in your shoes.’ He was one of those types that got a little anxious when he wasn’t quite sure what to order. He looked up at the board and all the numerous choices hand written in chalk. “Let me, uh, let me- I’m so sorry, I should have been figuring out what I wanted instead of looking at all the artwork in here. What’s good here?” He was going his best to focus on the board, trying to make a final decision and not waste too much of this woman’s time, but he kept stealing little glances at her, hoping she would have the solution to his dilemma. Crap, I’m gonna have to leave a big tip for sure. I can’t believe I didn’t have a drink picked out! How hard is “caramel macchiato, please”? Care-a-mel? Car-mle? Focus! Jesus, Moore, this is suppose to be the easier decision you’ll make all day. @KillahxKylie (edited)

She couldn't help but find the way he struggled to pick a drink almost charming in a way, and she definitely understood it. Ellie had always been the type to become paralyzed over simple decisions, as if choosing the wrong candy bar or ordering the wrong kind of fries at a diner would change the entire course of her life. "Hmmm my personal favorite is the vanilla chai latte, but if you're looking for more caffein you can't go wrong with an espresso based latte. I personally prefer caramel or salted caramel if I want to change it up a little" She said it like car-mle even though most people around her always seemed to say care-a-mel she wondered if maybe it's because she was raised on the east coast. "Theres also always the option of hot chocolate or tea if coffee isn't your thing" why would he be in the coffee shop if he wasn't looking for coffee you idiot? But then again why do we sell it if nobody would get it? Just focus and take his order for fucks sake! "Take your time though, we don't have a line anymore" She said with a soft smile peeking around the man with relief. @Deleted User

Alex beamed “Caramel, that’s how I say it too! I’m a bit of a caffeine addict, so let me do the salted caramel latte. I’ll definitely need to try that chai though, it sounds delicious. Maybe an afternoon pick-me-up.” He grinned. He was happy he had been able to find a drink that suited him. She seems to know her stuff. He thought to himself. He hadn’t been kidding about the caffeine addiction. All through college he watched his peers popping Adderall like it was candy, but he preferred his coffee. His roommates had always joked that one day they would walk in on him snorting fresh coffee grounds. Every paper, every test, every assignment he felt like he owed some of his success to the stuff. Coffee was a way of life for him, so it was great he found a coffee shop with a wide selection and knowledgeable barista. Plus she’s cute too. That nagging voice in the back of his head piped up. He quickly shooed the thought away. “So, what’s there to do or see around here? I just moved in up the street and I have no clue about this town.” He pulled out his relatively barren wallet, setting down his card to pay. “I’d love to check out any historical sites, or figure out the best lunch spot, or the local movie theater. I probably should have done more research on my own before moving in, if I’m being honest.” He rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassed he didn’t know more about the town he’d just become a part of. He’s gotten use to feeling like an outsider, but that feeling was never more prevalent than now. Just don’t accidentally be an ass to the woman. This is probably her home town and you’re just some guy who doesn’t know right from left in this city. Calm down. It can’t be worse than Sanford. But I guess I can’t get lost in the crowds like I could there.. uuugh. @KillahxKylie

She smiled to herself just barely when he said that's how he said it too and got to work making his drink, still listening to him as she did. She wasn't all that social outside of work but it was easy to put the mask on here and pretend to be as close to normal and she'd prefer to be. "definitely try it one of these days, it has a little caffeine just not as much as a latte with espresso does." She couldn't help but sneak glances at him as she worked on his drink. He's kinda cute when he rambles like this. But she was quick to focus more on his words than his looks. She had written off any kind of romance a long time ago. It never worked out. "Oh um well there's a little bistro a few blocks from here, that's my favorite lunch spot they have really fresh salads and fruits.. umm I'm not much of a history buff so I can't say for sure about any of that.. there's an art museum I personally enjoy going to. Oh and you can't go wrong making the drive to the coast to see the beaches" She felt stupid for not knowing more of the local favorites but she didn't really venture out much. She had lived here for just about six years now and barely knew more than the guy who had just moved in. "You'd think having been here for six years I'd know more" she said it with a small laugh trying to ease the embarrassment she felt. "Where did you move from?" @Deleted User

Alex pulled out a small moleskin notebook, taking notes as she talked about the town. •Chai •Bistro •Art Museum •Beaches “Shoot, with a list like this I’m gonna need a tour guide!” He chuckled, adding ‘•Historical Sites?’ to the bottom. “Thank you for this. I would have been totally lost on my own.” He smiled at her. It a another of his warm, genuine smiles. He always appreciated anyone willing to go out of their way to help a newcomer. “Oh, I moved here from just south of San Francisco. Colorado before that. That’s where I’m from originally. My folks still live in north Colorado, but I’ve been moving around for school. Which is how I’m here now, I guess. See, I was studying-” He stopped himself. “Am I over sharing? This feels like oversharing.” He joked, though he felt it was a legitimate question at the moment. “What about you? Are you originally from here?” He leaned forward and propped his elbows on countertop, alternating between looking at the various paintings or photos on the walls and watching her make his drink. @KillahxKylie

She watched him taking notes between making his drink, almost burning the milk as she did and grimacing at herself for being so distracted. It was bad enough her mind was almost always all over the place she didn't need to add more distraction on top of that. When he started to ramble a bit about himself she had to focus on not getting overwhelmed, he wasn't being rude or even offensive by any means. She just wasn't used to people talking to her this much at all. Maybe a 'Hows your day?' but nothing more than that. Not from strangers. And she didn't exactly have many friends. "No, no it's fine I'm just not used to people talking to me much" She offered a soft smile and continued working on his drink, adding the finishing touches "I was actually born and raised in New York so.. complete opposite coast. It's sort of crazy how different it is here... Whip?" @Deleted User

“Well maybe people should talk to you more. You seem like a cool chick.” Don’t be so goddamn presumptive, moron. He straightened himself and cleared his throat. “New York sounds cool. Definitely a big change from here.” He smiled again, this one a bit more strained as he started to feel like he was imposing. “Whip would be awesome.” He waited patiently for the drink, not wanting to impose. He started to realize maybe he had been talking too much. An unfortunate nervous habit. He always had to remind himself to shut up and listen. “I’m Alex, by the way.” There you go again, idiot. Just couldn’t stand a silence could you? @KillahxKylie

You seem like a cool chick. She couldn't help but grimace because she was anything but cool, if he asked around she was sure most people would tell him to avoid her and that she's insane. She couldn't really blame anyone who would say that I mean the evidence was right there under her sweater. Stop spiralling "Whip it is" she couldn't even bring herself to acknowledge the fact that he thought she seemed cool as she squeezed the handle to the whip canister to top off his drink. "I'm Eleanor but most people call me Ellie, sounds younger or something like that" she managed a small laugh as she put the lid onto his drink. He talked a lot but it was nice, it kept her from getting too deep into her own thoughts. "Oh! And it is a lot different than New York, especially the area I grew up in. I wasn't in the big city" she felt stupid for forgetting that he had said anything else after his first comment. Setting his drink on the counter she almost called out his order out of habit but remembered at the last second she didn't need to. "I hope you like it" @Deleted User

“I have no doubt I will.” He smiled “It looks like a work of art” He picked it up and pushed his last five dollar bill into the tip jar. He was about to turn away when he stopped himself, facing her again. “Hey, I really have no idea where I’m going yet. Would you want to show me around town some time? Like I said, I could really use a tour guide.” You just can’t fucking help yourself, can you? ‘I need a tour guide.’ Super original, Alex. He brought the coffee to his lips, taking his first sip. “Ow, shit!” He yelled, pulling the cup from his mouth. “Well that was pretty stupid.” He mumbled. Feeling his tongue in his mouth to see how badly he’d just burnt himself. @KillahxKylie

"Thank you" she said with a smile as she watched him slip the five into the tip jar, she would get to keep all of the ones she got when she was the only one behind the counter and she could certainly use every penny right now. She was just about to start wiping down the counters while there was a lull in the customer flow when he turned back around to face her. "Oh um I mean.." she paused for a second that felt like an eternity. She hadn't really hung out with anyone in such a long time that she wasn't sure she even knew how to anymore at this point. The couple friends she managed to keep mostly kept in touch through text and the occasional FaceTime call. "I don't know a ton about the area but I could show you my favorite places? I-if that's cool with you I mean" She couldn't help but almost laugh when he took a sip that was way too soon and way too hot before she got him a small cup with some cold water in it "oh my gosh are you okay? here take this it'll help, I can't tell you how many times I've burnt myself here" @Deleted User

He happily took the cup of water and downed it. “Thank you. Jesus that stung.” He shook his head, chuckling at his own misfortune. “Whatever your favorite spots are, I’d love to see them! It will definitely help me settle into the pace of life around here.” He ran his hand through his hair. “It’s just easier to settle in once I’ve seen the place.” He thought about his first month at Stanford, barely leaving his apartment for more than groceries. It took a casual acquaintance from a class finally dragging him to San Fransisco for the weekend before he felt comfortable enough to explore on his own. He hoped this new town would be no different, but this time he was going to take the initiative to get to know his new home. “Anyway,” he said, snapping back to the conversation. “I don’t know when you might be free to show a newbie some of the good spots around here, but I’m free all weekend before I have to start my program at the university?” @KillahxKylie

"People underestimate how bad hot drinks can hurt" she laughed softly and thought about what he was saying for a few moments. What harm could it be just showing him around a little? One and done you never have to see him again unless he comes in for a drink. "That makes sense sorta hard to feel like you belong when you haven't seen anything." She watched him thinking about something or another, she didn't know him well enough to know what but she could only assume it was about the last time he moved. Maybe it didn't go so great, or maybe he was a pro at this once he had his bearings. That's right he's a student.. must be nice. She had tried college, really wanted to be able to make it through and get a degree in art, an idea her parents scoffed at. And she had managed to prove them right when she dropped out halfway through the first semester and landed herself in inpatient for 2 weeks straight. Great times. "This weekend.. I should be free on Sunday, I'm usually off on Sundays. We could do lunch at that bistro I was telling you about?" That doesn't sound too date like does it? Lunch? No.. right? @Deleted User

He smiled. “Lunch would be great. I can start checking things off my list right away!” He opened the notebook again, writing down Sunday, lunch, bistro. “I’d offer to pick you up, but I don’t have a car.” He said sheepishly. “Do you want to meet here and walk over? What time works best for you? Noon?” He was excited to be meeting someone new. He knew the sooner he put down roots the less he would have the urge to tuck into himself and withdraw. He’d been almost anti-social in high school, caught up in whatever hobby caught his attention that week. He’d been working so hard to change, to be out going to be- the kind of guy who talks to a woman he’s never met in a coffee shop? He suddenly felt a little silly, like he was inconveniencing this poor girl just trying to do her job. But she did agree to meet me, so maybe I’m not as big an ass as I think I am? He swallowed the anxieties down, reminding himself that growing meant challenging himself. @KillahxKylie

"Oh that's fine it's not too far, we can definitely walk" she smiled back, she would have offered to drive herself but she felt awkward being the one picking him up, especially since they had just met. Plus it had been decent weather lately and supposedly being outside was good for you or some shit like that. "Noon is perfect" she hated it when people wanted to meet up any earlier than that, she barely slept and she liked to soak up every ounce she could when she didn't have to be awake early. She found it cute the way he wrote everything down, as if the thought wouldn't stick unless it was on paper. Stop it, he's just being friendly. You're probably one of the first people he's talked to that's all. "Should we exchange numbers in case something comes up?" In case you bail you mean? "I'd hate for one of us to be standing there forever waiting" @Deleted User

Alex found himself caught off guard by the question. This suddenly all felt very familiar. Ahh, you’re catching on now, aren’t you? Patterns are a bitch, aren’t they? He remembered chatting up the cute girl cramming for finals at Grounded Coffee back in Colorado. The biggest mistake of his life had been sitting down and making her laugh. He felt the familiar twinge of heart break as he did his best to recenter himself and push her from his mind. “Phone numbers, yes, I’ve got one of those.” He made a bad attempt at joking as he wrote down his number on a blank page of the notebook and tore it out for her. Alex Moore 970-682-9275 Coffee Shop, Noon, Sunday He did his best to bring himself back to the moment, to leave the past in the past. “Just send me a text so I have your number too, and I guess I’ll see you back here on Sunday?” He set the paper down on the counter for her before backing up toward the door. “It was really nice meeting you, Ellie. I look forward to you showing me around a bit this weekend!” He smiled at her one last time before exiting the small coffee shop. The rest of his day went by in truly uninteresting fashion. He unpacked boxes, put dished in their new homes on the shelves, took bed sheets out of boxes, put together and made the bed. It was a lot, and by the end he was truly exhausted. It had been a long day, and an even longer year. Alex warmed up what had become a staple in his life as a grad student, ramen. He ate his dinner on the small couch in front of the TV, watching a documentary on a recent indigenous archeological dig which shed new light on the migration patterns of Native Americans. Finally, he collapsed into bed. He slept soundly, not stirring until around 10:00 the following morning. All his morning contained was a quick bowl of cereal, then folding and putting away clothes in his dresser. He spent the next hour trying to figure out what on earth he should wear before settling on a deep blue shirt with small

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white diamond across it. He tossed on his tan light jacket over that, pale red chinos, and a pair of brown high top shoes. Then he waited. He didn’t want to show up too early or too late, so he sat there until 11:45 would roll around and he felt good about walking to their meeting spot. @KillahxKylie

Ellie watched the way he seemed to go somewhere else in his head for a few moments. If there was one plus about all of her issues it was that she was able to read people a little easier when she was paying attention. She smiled at him when he set the paper on the counter and quickly tucked it away in her pocket, she didn't want to get shit for having her phone out at work so she would remember to text him later on. "Yeah I'll definitely see you here on Sunday, I hope you have a nice day Alex" she waved a little and then finally got to work cleaning up a little before more customers came in. When she'd gotten off work she was exhausted and the walk home was a complete and total drag. When she pushed in to the door of her apartment she let out a heavy sigh of relief to be home again. Taking a shower to get the smell of coffee out of her hair she settled into the couch and sent a simple text with a 'Hey this is Ellie' and nevermind how long she sat there thinking about if adding a smile was too much or not. Once she'd sent it she set her phone down to be forgotten the rest of the night as she made herself some dinner and then promptly crawled into bed, not that she fell asleep any time soon but it was the thought that counted. At least that's what she told herself every night. The following day she was so nervous she couldn't even eat breakfast and paced her apartment wondering if she could get away with cancelling with every minute that ticked by. By the time she had finally pulled herself together she had to rush to get dressed. She settled on a peachy colored dress with a jean jacket and a cute pair of booties. She wasn't sure if it was too much but she didn't have time to try on anything else before she headed out the door to make the walk to the cafe, hoping she wasn't already running late. @Deleted User

At 11:50 Alex crossed the street to the cafe. He hopped up the curb and stood outside. He pulled out his phone, typing out a quick text to the number that had texted him earlier. Hey! Just got here, see you soon! He stood out in the chilly air for a bit, then turned and headed into the coffee shop. He walked up to the unfamiliar face behind the counter. “Hey, uh, two chai lattes please. Yeah, thanks.” He smiled politely and stood there waiting for the two hot drinks to come out. @KillahxKylie

"Shit shit shit I'm so late" she muttered to herself as she walked to the cafe to meet him. She knew she wasn't technically late, they had said noon but everyone knows you never want to show up at the actual time.. right? Be there soon, sorry I'm a little behind She sent the text and picked up the pace until she made it to the cafe herself. Taking a deep breath before she pulled the door open. You can do this. It's just lunch. She repeated as many times as she could to herself before she reached the counter. "Hey! I'm sorry I'm late. You weren't waiting for too long were you?" @Deleted User

Alex turned around to see her and smiled, two drinks in hand. “Well hi there! No need to apologize, I was just hanging out.” He handed one of the drinks to her. “Chai latte, right?” He asked, almost a little skeptical of he’d gotten it right. “If you’re ready I’d love to see this bistro of yours.” He said, walking backwards toward the door so he could continue this conversation. He didn’t even see the college student open the door and try to step inside. They put their hand out to stop them from colliding and Alex jumped. “Oh! Shit! Jesus, I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you there.” He apologized profusely as he stepped past them to hold the door for Ellie. The student just shook their head and walked away muttering “Just watch where you’re going.” Alex stood there, drink in hand, holding the door for her. “You said the bistro is close, right? I’m blind here so I’m follow you.” @KillahxKylie

She couldn't help but smile when he turned around and had a drink for her already, a chai at that. He must have really been paying attention when she was talking to him last time. "My favorite yes, thank you" She took the drink from him and took a small sip before following him back towards the door. "I'm definitely ready, I missed breakfast." Ellie couldn't help the slight giggle she let out once they made it outside after his near collision with the seemingly grouchy college student, nothing she wasn't accustomed to working there. "Yeah it's just a couple blocks from here, it would be pretty hard to get lost" She fell into step with him on the sidewalk and tried to calm her nerves. "So um what brings you here again? You said you're a student right? At least I think you did.. something about classes?" She cringed slightly hoping she was remembering correctly. She would feel like such an ass if he had remembered what she said and she didn't. @Deleted User

Alex walked along side her, occasionally sipping from the truly exceptional chai. “Yeah, exactly! I did my undergrad in Bolder, which was amazing because I was only a few hours from home, and the mountains were incredible. After that I had to do my masters in California. Huuuge adjustment. I mean, I didn’t know a soul. But I think that’s what I needed, ya know? I needed to get away from Boulder and just learn to be myself again and be outgoing. So anyway, Master’s in European History, and now I’m here. “I was invited to the Doctoral program and I’ll get to teach a 100-level class and assist one of the professors in her work while working toward my own degree, which is basically a dream come true! The university in town was one of the only places I could find with a program that would focus on the migration patterns of tribal peoples all over the world. I have this theory about some of the migratory patterns of the pre-Incan peoples in South America that Dr. Fleming has been working on as well, so it’s all really exciting-” He stopped himself. “Well, it’s exciting to me. I’m realizing how lame all of this probably sounds right now. History doctoral candidates aren’t exactly known for being the coolest cats around.” He said sheepishly, remembering not everyone was as passionate about the field as he was. @KillahxKylie

"I can imagine the mountains must have been beautiful" She smiled softly and listened to him ramble on about everything he was studying, honestly it was nice. The way he talked so much and so freely. It gave her something to focus on that wasn't the constant swirl of thoughts in her own head. She couldn't say she had any idea about half of the things he was saying but it was interesting none the less. She found herself wanting to know more about him and his life which was weird for her. "I have.. no idea what most of that stuff is but it sounds like it's honestly really interesting. And I swear I'm not just saying that" She let out a soft laugh. "So.. you're gonna be a teacher then? Or professor? I don't want it to sound like I'm downplaying it or anything like that" that was one thing about Ellie, she was always worried she was going to offend someone and make them hate her. People hated her enough on their own as is. @Deleted User

Alex thought about it for a moment. “Yeah, I guess I will be a professor!” A smile grew across his face. “Professor Moore. Has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?” He chuckled. “I hadn’t thought about that, thank you!” He had a bit more pep in his step as he thought about his new role at the university. Don’t just talk about yourself, jackass. He shook himself out of his euphoria and looked over at her. “How about you? What brought you here?” He was legitimately interested in her and her life. She had something about her that intrigued him, and he wanted to figure out what it was. He walked along side her as he let her lead the way. He hoped the bistro was as good as she claimed, because this was his last $50 until the university gave him his first check Monday morning. He always said he tried not to stress about money, however it was one of his biggest stresses in life. @KillahxKylie

She couldn't help but smile when she saw the way that seemed to cheer him up, it was funny to her that he had never thought about it after he had put in so much work and effort to get there. When he asked her about herself and why she was there she couldn't help the way panic pricked at the back of her neck. She couldn't tell him that she ended up here because her family paid for her to be in some 'top treatment facility'. "I moved here with some family" is all she could come up with as she tried to hide the pinch of her brows at her own lie. Her family hadn't moved here with her, in fact she hadn't heard from them in months. She figured it was because she only stayed in the facility for a month before she left. It was too much. Too clinical and it just all seemed so fake. Sometimes she couldn't help but think she should have stayed longer though. "Professor Moore does have a nice ring to it by the way" She was desperate to get the attention back off of herself and back onto him. He had things he had succeeded in, an interesting and normal seeming life. She would much rather hear about him than let him see an ounce of her life. @Deleted User

Alex’s brow furrowed at her comment about family, but he quick chased the look from his face. He could tell there was more there. Maybe she’s just a private person, you nosy bitch. You met this girl yesterday. Don’t expect to get her life story the next day. He let the issue go. “I think so! I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to teach, plus working with some of my idols in the field is a dream come true. My first class will be History 108: Early Mesopotamian to Late Roman Studies so it should be a lot of fun. It’s a little Eurocentric, but I’m going to try bringing in some local peoples’ view points to bring context to it all. We’ll see how it goes.” He pointed to the building on the corner of the approaching street. “Is this the place?” He asked, clearly excited to try one of her suggestions. @KillahxKylie

Rory couldn't help but feel stupid when he told her about all of the things he would be teaching, and all of the things that he had obviously learned about in great detail. Then came that feeling, the one she had gotten so well acquainted with, the feeling of being a failure. What a let down it must be that she didn't get any kind of degree, that she hasn't made more of her life. "I have no idea what any of that is but it sounds really interesting." That was true, it did sound interesting and she remembered bits and pieces of some of it from high school, not much though. "I bet your students are really going to like you. When do you start teaching?" She couldn't remember if he had said and she felt bad about it but sometimes her memory just didn't like to cooperate so she figured where was the harm in asking. She looked towards where he was pointing and nodded "Yeah that's the place, I haven't been here in a few weeks-" never mind why "-I'm really excited to finally eat here again" It was nice, she had to admit, being out and about a little. It was a nice day out and the company had proven to be enjoyable. Maybe if you weren't such a fuck up you'd have more friends. She pushed the thought down as they entered the bistro. It had a bit of a boho vibe and she always loved how many plants were around. "Looks like theres an open booth over there" She said pointing towards the back corner. @Deleted User

“You should come sit in on a class some time! I’d love to get an objective perspective on nsome of my lessons from someone who isn’t either grading me or being graded by me.” He chuckled. “I’m suppose to start tomorrow. I didn’t exactly give myself a lot of time to get unpacked and settled, but I think it will be alright!” “Oh, I’m excited too! I’m always a sucker for some fantastic local cuisine!” Alex followed her into the bistro, looking around at all the decor. “Woah, I can already tell why you recommended this place.” He followed her to the booth in the back corner and took a seat across from her. He picked up the menu sitting there, opening it and looking from page to page. “Excellent coffee recommendation, great restaurant choice. What’s good here? I’m at your mercy today.” He laughed a little. He had no idea what to pick, and she’d done well so far. Why not trust her with this too? She seems great. I wonder how you’re gonna fuck this up. @KillahxKylie

The idea of sitting in a class full of students immediately made her skin crawl, she wished that she could be someone who would be eager to give him feedback but knowing how her mind worked she knew even if she could make it through a class without bolting she'd only hear maybe a quarter of what he said. "Yeah.. maybe" she said with a semi forced smile "Oh! Oh my gosh I'm so stupid I thought you meant that you started classes like as a student tomorrow. That must be so exciting!" She couldn't believe how dumb she felt when she misunderstood what he had said before and felt her cheeks heat with the embarrassment of it. "I've always loved how many plants they have here" she said with a smile as she settled into the booth. "Oh um hmm well what kinds of foods do you enjoy? Are you a vegetarian or anything?" She asked as she looked over the menu herself, she almost always got one of two things but she still always looked. "I'm glad you liked the drink too by the way, it's always been my go to" because you almost never try anything new, stupid. @Deleted User

“Oh I’m taking classes too, but those start up later in the week. We’ll see how things go. Trying to get my doctorate so they are some really heavy courses.” He chuckled at her question. “No, not a vegetarian or anything. You just tell me what you like and I’ll give it a try. I’m not too picky. I’ll give my folks props, they made me try foods from all over the world growing up, so I try to keep an open mind no matter what it is. Just don’t give me any Rocky Mountain Oysters and we’ll be fine.” He laughed. He’d tried them once before, but was confident they weren’t his cup of tea. He was trying to focus on talking with her, but at the same time he could tell her mind was running a mile a minute. There was obviously so much more beneath the surface and he wanted to know what it was. She seems like she’s in her head a lot. Not that I have any room to judge, or that it’s even a bad thing. He wanted to understand this woman sitting across from him. @KillahxKylie

"Oh! Sorry I swear I've listening to everything you've said I just don't understand a lot about college and degrees and all of that so- ahem sorry I'm rambling" she blushed and shook her head holding the menu in a way that hid her embarrassed face. Fucking idiot, why don't you just hold a sign up that says 'I'm stupid'? She shook her foot under the table, a nervous habit, one of the ways she could get out some of the built up nervous energy without actually bolting. She was having a nice time with him and she didn't want to fuck it up. "Okay um.. well I usually get the Asian summer salad? I get mine with tofu but I bet it's great with chicken too. I just really like the dressing, oh and all of their produce is super fresh" Seriously? The produce is fresh? That's what you came up with? "Oysters scare me" she said with a small laugh "Any raw fish or meat is just.." she cringed and laughed again. "So are you parents or any family here too or just you?" It was a genuine question she really was curious to know but she also wanted as much attention off of her as possible. She swore she could feel him trying to figure her out just by looking at her and it made her skin crawl. Nobody sticks around when they know how messed up you are, she'd learned that the hard way time and time again.

15:41

@Deleted User

You’re rambling? I’m rambling! Don’t nothing but talk about myself since we met today.. “Oh, it’s worse than just raw fish…” He said sheepishly. “It’s, uh, bull testicles. One of my cousins tricked me into eating one when I was a kid. Let me tell you. Never again. Ever.” He shook his head and scrunched his shoulders, grossed out by the memory. “No, no family here. My folks and most of my family are up around Fort Collins. So it’s just me for now. San Francisco was like 12 hours away before, now I’m more like 16 hours away. Definitely the furthest from them I’ve ever been. I kinda miss them, ya know? But that’s part of growing up, I suppose. Getting out on your own. Making your own decisions. Fighting for every penny until you can finally say you’ve made it.” He sighed. “Sorry, now I’m the one rambling. Life just feels more and more complicated every year, right?” @KillahxKylie

"It's- oh my god that's so gross" She laughed, really laughed, bringing a hand up to cover her mouth as she did before she sighed and stopped "That's terrible oh my god I would never recover if that happened to me. I'll have to remember that if I ever make my way to Colorado." "Yeah.. that's gotta be hard being so far away from them. It's part of it all but it doesn't make it any easier" She knew exactly how it felt to be away from your family. At least it seemed like he had a decent relationship with them, at least from what she assumed from how he didn't seem bothered when he spoke about them. You could always just ask you idiot. "Are you close with your family?" See that wasn't so hard now was it? "You have no idea" She laughed a little because if he had any idea the kind of person she really was that would seem like the understatement of the century. Although, she had managed to live another year over and over again and that took her by surprise. @Deleted User

Alex perked up at her question about his family. “Yeah, I guess we’re pretty tight. It’s just me and my parents now. We’ve been through a lot and I think it made us closer. I think I’m really grateful to them for that. They are just so resilient. They’ve been through things no parent should have to go through, but they held us together and kept us moving forward. Honestly, they’re my role models. I just hope one day I can find even a fraction of what they found in each other.” Alex smiled, but it was a sad smile. There was a lot behind those eyes, but his parents taught him to always keep moving forward. Never forget him, but don’t let losing him destroy you. Live well despite the pain, son. His dad has said to him during one of their late night conversations years later. It was a pretty difficult comment for someone still grieving the death of a child, but that’s just the way his dad was. Not cold or callus, he felt deeply, but both his dad and mom were always trying to find the best life had to offer. Alex was suddenly present again. He sniffled just a little, then looked back over at Ellie. “Can we talk about something else please?” Just then the waiter came over. “Hello, folks! What can I get for ya?” Alex, eager to change the topic piped up. “Yeah, I hear your Asian Salad is amazing. I’ll have that, please.” @KillahxKylie

"Well I'm glad the three of you are close" She smiled softly and watched as his mind seemed to go somewhere else, somewhere that didn't necessarily seem to be a happy memory. She wondered what it could be when he had just said they were close. Something bad must have happened. She was just about to say something, anything, when he spoke up again and asked if they could talk about something else. "Yeah of course we can." Is all she got out before the waitress came over to take their order. "I'll have the same with tofu and with a peach iced tea please" She smiled politely and when the waitress left to put their order in she couldn't help but feel awkward. Almost painfully so. "Hey I'm sorry if I brought up a sore subject I didn't mean to put a damper on your day" She really hadn't meant to bring up something sad for him. Guess that's what happens when you get nosey. Stupid. "How are you liking your new place so far?" She hoped that was a better subject, although once she had said it she realized it might be a sore one since he had said he didn't have much time to get settled. You're so fucking stupid. This is why you have no friends. @Deleted User

“No, no. You couldn’t have known. Not your fault. Just something my family went through years ago. Just hurts to remember a bit.” He tried to push past the negative feelings. It wasn’t fair to dredge up his personal trauma around this girl he’d just met. Hold yourself together, Alex. That was years ago. It’s okay. He was grateful for the new topic, the relief probably evident on his face. “Yeah, the new place is nice. A little tight, but I technically have everything I need so I think I’m good. Just your typical broke grad student problems I suppose.” He chuckled. “I have just enough space to host 4, maybe 5 people for a party. But I suppose I’m getting ahead of myself, huh? I don’t even know anyone here, well, except for you. You don’t wanna come over to party some time, do you?” Ever heard of a double entendre, dumbass? He realized almost immediately what he said. “Oh jeez, that came off really creepy, I can’t believe-” He stumbled over himself apologizing. “Sorry. I’m just gonna curl into a ball and die from embarrassment over here.” He tried to hold the menu in front of his face to hide his red cheeks. @KillahxKylie

"I understand, you don't need to explain it to me, we all have our things." She gave him a sympathetic smile and was grateful herself when he let her change the subject. His apartment definitely sounded small but most of them were, she only had a studio herself and she wondered if he was in the same boat. "Hey there's nothing wrong with small, it can be cozy" And its all you can manage to keep clean. She felt her cheeks heat and tried not to show the discomfort on her face when he asked about coming over to party sometime, she had only been to a few parties in her adult life and none off them ever ended well. Some of them ending much worse than others. She tried to push the different memories out of her mind and keep breathing, she really didn't want to have a full blown panic attack the first time hanging out with him. You mean you don't want him to know what a freak you are. "No no no it's okay I.. I mean I understand what you meant. Words have a habit of coming out wrong" She really did understand that, and he didn't seem like that kind of guy, the creepy kind. "You don't seem like a creep" Because your judgement has always been soooo great right? "Um anyways smaller parties seem to be the better ones I think." @Deleted User

“I’m glad I don’t seem like a creep.” He teased her back. “I definitely have the bad habit of putting my food in my mouth way too often, so I apologize in advance for that.” He smiled over at her, trying to swallow his embarrassment. “I agree. Too many people and then I feel like I don’t know who to talk to, or where to stand, or what do with my hands for some reason? I don’t know, I’ve just never loved big groups. Give me just a couple good friends, some card games, and some beer and I’m content.” Just then the food was brought to their table. Alex looked down at the bright, leafy salad. If he was being honest, salads weren’t really his thing. But you aren’t being honest, are you? You want to impress this girl, don’t you? He shrugged off the thought. “Thank you!” He said to the waitress before she left. “Wow. This looks really good!” He commented before folding his hands in front of himself. He was about to close his eyes when he stopped himself. “Oh, sorry, I do this thing before every mean. It isn’t praying, or meditating, per say. It’s more like just being present and grateful before I eat. You.. can join me, if you like?” He laid his arms out on the table toward her, palms upward, inviting her to take them. With his arms out like this his left sleeve had ridden up just a little revealing the end of a scar. All that was visible was a line down his wrist, with two visible cross-scars where the wound had been stitched or stapled back together. It was clearly many years old. @KillahxKylie

"Yeah exactly" she forced a smile as if she had any idea what it was like to have friends that she hung out with in person, but he didn't need to know that she hadn't experienced that in a long time. She still had friends.. they just didn't see each other. "And it's okay I'm awkward a lot of the time so don't worry about it" that much was true and it honestly was nice to hang out with someone who seemed so human. When the food was brought to their table her eyes lit up, she wasn't much of a meat eater and she loved the salads here, she was honestly surprised he went with the same thing but she wasn't going to say that out loud. "Yes thank you this looks great" she said with a polite smile before the waitress disappeared again. "It's my favorite thing on the menu I swear.. I think it's mostly the dressing that makes it.. well and how fresh everything is" she took a sip of her drink and was caught off guard when he looked like he was about to pray. Not that she was against religion she just wasn't expecting it. When he explained that it was more about just being present she smiled softly, that is until she caught a glimpse of the scar peeking out of his sleeve. She couldn't help but stare at it wondering how he had gotten it. Not everyone was like her and she was sure it was probably just an accident but the idea of putting her arms out and potentially exposing herself had her breaths coming faster than she realized. "U-um yeah sure" she got out nervously before reaching to take his hands. Stop being so fucking weird. His hands are up not yours stupid. "Sorry I just haven't held hands with anyone in awhile- not that we're holding hands like that just-" she shut up and felt her face heat up all over again in embarrassment. Way to go Ellie you fucking dumb ass. @Deleted User

Alex was settling himself in, closing his eyes, and relaxing his face when she made the hand holding comment. It would have embarrassed him, but he has explained this little mindfulness exercise to people a hundred times over. He opened his eyes and smiled at her. “It’s fine,” he chuckled. “Just place your palms flat on top of mine.” He guided her through the ritual as he sat there, knowing how odd it probably looks from the outside. “The palms connect, and it’s just a nice reminder of others when we get caught up in ourselves. Then you just close your eyes, relax your face, and take a moment to breathe deep. I like to think about the food in front of me. How it got there, all the people who grew it, harvested it, transported it, and made it possible for me to eat today. But if that’s too weird, just think about all the other people on the planet we share. I find a lot of piece in reminding myself I am just one of many. Peace in the insignificance and trivial mess of my problems. Helps me keep focused.” He talked her through each step, taking his moment to breathe deeply. After a moment he opened his eyes, taking a second to see if here eyes were shut (and if they were, stealing a glance at her), before tapping the sides of her hands with his thumbs. “Alright, you can open your eyes now.” You know she probably thinks you’re a weirdo now, right? The nagging voice in his head tried to get a rise out of his again. He just pushed the thoughts from his mind. He and his brother had always done with as kids when they were scared or hurt. They did it a lot toward the end. Because of his connection he would never part with his sacred tradition, regardless of what people thought. “Thanks for doing that with me.” He smiled over at the girl he had met literally only the day before. “This seriously does look good, I don’t think I can wait any longer. Let’s dig in!” He picked up his fork and stabbed a helping of the salad. @KillahxKylie

"Okay" She nodded and set her palms flat on his, it felt awkward at first and she was really hoping that her hands weren't sweaty. They tended to do that when she was nervous and this, physical contact, made her really nervous. She watched him for a moment as he explained how to do this and when he was finished she let her eyes closed. You shouldn't just stare it's creepy.. plus this seems important to him. She went through the motions and tried to actually think about how small her problems were in the grand scheme of things. It didn't work, at all, and her brows were probably pinches in the frustration of that as she drew in and let out deeper breaths. That part felt nice, gave her a sense of calm that she definitely needed in the moment. She couldn't help but wonder how he came to find this ritual of his, if it was a family thing or something he had discovered somehow on his own. Either way she found it endearing. Don't. Don't get attached. When she heard his voice again she let her eyes open and squinted for a moment, the light suddenly seeming much more bright than before until her eyes readjusted. "Thanks for showing me how" She said with soft smile before she picked up her fork. "Don't be afraid to tell me if you don't like it I swear I won't be offended" She laughed softly before she dug in. If there was one thing she had never had issues with it was food. @Deleted User

He chuckled a little. “I’m sure I’ll love it.” He shoveled the pile of leafy greens into his mouth. He chewed for a moment, a perplexed look on his face as he pondered the flavors. “Hmm. Hmm!” He gulped the bite down. “Miss Ellie, I believe you’ve done it again! Not bad at all!” He helped himself to another bite before sipping down some of the glass of water that had been set down for him. “I knew I picked right when I asked you to show me around. You know the best food spots, clearly you know the best coffee shop. I don’t doubt there’s plenty you could show me around me.” He smiled over at her, just glad to have someone who was helping him feel like he knew the area. Like things were okay and with time he would belong. He could help catching her eye just a little longer than maybe he should. You’re a sucker for beautiful eyes, aren’t you there buddy? She had taken time out of her busy schedule to show him around and he promised he make it weird. Don’t get attached. You know what happens when you get attached. @KillahxKylie

Ellie watched with anticipation when he took the first bite as she chewed her own she was nervous that he wouldn't like it, as if it would be a personal attack she tried to make on him if he chose what she suggested and didn't like it. Dramatic much? "Yeah you really like it?" It made her happy to know she didn't ruin his lunch or his first time in one of her favorite places. Why? It's not like you'll be coming here together again. "I mean I don't know if I'd say I know all of the best they're just the ones I like" she smiled back at him and could feel a slight blush dusting her cheeks. One problem she'd always had, she blushed over the smallest things. Whether she was embarrassed, angry, sad, her cheeks would flush and sometimes it spread all the up to her ears and down her chest. When she noticed his eyes lingering on hers just a few beats longer than a quick glance she forced hers away. She could admit to herself that she had pretty eyes, somewhere between green and hazel with a dark ring around each splash of color. "So um have you met anyone else in the area yet?" She tried to pull the attention off of herself yet again. She couldn't deny the attraction that she felt but she knew it was a back idea. It never ends well, and it always ends. Save yourself the trouble. @Deleted User

“I do like it. I like it a lot!” He smiled over at her. He was really enjoying lunch. It was nice to have the company. It was never easy uprooting himself. He had deep ties everywhere he stayed more than a year. He hoped this girl would be a part of his new ties in this new town. “Don’t sell yourself short! You seem a lot more tapped into the lifeblood of this place than I would be if so was wandering around, trying to figure it all out for myself.” He took moments between conversation to eat more of the fantastic salad she’d recommended. “So, tell me, what’s your plans, Ellie?” He took a sip of water before continuing. “You’ve been here several years now. You think you’ll settle here? You just planning on school, or focusing on saving up money? Maybe this is just a stop along the way?” He hoped he wasn’t prying too much, but he was curious. She had shrugged off most inquiries about herself and he very much want get to know her, understand her. Alex wasn’t sure why he gravitated to her. She had a certain aura around her that he very much could not wrap his head around. He felt that maybe to understand her would be to also understand something about himself, something under the surface he couldn’t quite see yet. It was a perplexing situation. @KillahxKylie (edited)

"You'd be surprised I really only know a few places.. I don't go out too much." It was true, she didn't need to offer up why she didn't go out much for it to be the truth so she didn't exactly feel bad for leaving out a massive chunk of the reason. She found herself relaxing a little as she ate until he asked what her plans were and it took everything in her to not choke on the leafy greens. "I-." Good job you managed to get out one letter. Just come up with something! "I don't really know. I've never been one for planning too far ahead." Because I never plan on being here the next year and yet somehow I always am. "I guess it's not so bad here, the weathers certainly nicer than back home. I definitely think I'll at least stay on the west coast." That much was true, she enjoyed how often it was sunny and warm here and she wouldn't ever miss the snow. "What about you? I mean besides teaching what's in your future plans?" @Deleted User

Alex thought for a second. “Ya know, I’ve thought about that for a long time. Most of my plans revolve around teaching and research. I don’t know if there is a ‘besides teaching’ for me. I have a few universities I’d love to teach at, and there’s some research opportunities that might involve some archeology expeditions, but we’ll see.” He thought for a moment. “I guess I’ve always been passionate about teaching, but nothing comes before the thrill of research and discovery. In my masters I got to help out on a dig in So-Cal, and it was just incredible. He excavated a indigenous heritage site, and pulling up all of those artifacts was really really amazing. “If I’m lucky I can make tenure with my degree and be set for life at a University somewhere, but we’ll see. I try not to get my hopes too high. It’s a difficult field to stay relevant in, but I’m hoping my work with Dr. Fleming will help me make a name for myself. “There’s all that, then charity work. I try to volunteer where I can, but I would love to eventually have enough money to really make a difference. Like really really make a difference. Until then I’ll keep volunteering when and where I can. I dunno. It’s a big world. Who knows where life will take me.” @KillahxKylie

She hummed a little bit when she listened to him say that he just wanted to teach and honestly she envied him. He had such big goals and worked so hard to be able to live his dream and that was something she wasn't sure she'd ever really be able to manage. She wasn't even sure what her dream was anymore. She used to think it was to be able to make a living off of her paintings but now she wasn't so sure. I mean was that even possible? She pulled herself from her thoughts when she felt her lips tugging into a small frown. Great job stupid now he's going to think you think his dream is dumb. "That's honestly amazing, your family must be so proud of you and I bet you'll definitely make tenure." She smiled at him before she kept on eating stopping to take a drink here and there. "What kind of charity work do you do?" Other than hanging out with you, you mean? "I honestly haven't ever done volunteer work which sort of sounds really bad now that you've said you do so much to help other people" She felt bad all of a sudden, like she should be doing way more to help, but what was she supposed to do? You can't even help yourself. @Deleted User (edited)

“Oh, just little things. I’ve helped on a couple Habitat for Humanity builds, more often it’s soup kitchens or shelters. Just wherever there’s a need. I haven’t been in one spot long enough to really get established with one organization, so..” He shrugged. “I guess that’s another thing I need to figure out now that I’m here. You’re more than welcome to come with me whenever I figure it out, if you want? It’s nothing to feel bad over, but there is something really special about helping people. Always helps keep me out of my own head, ya know?” He smiling as he finished his salad. “This was seriously good, thank you.” No one could accuse Alex of being an ungrateful person, not today. This showing of kindness from a total stranger meant the world to him and he wouldn’t let it go unappreciated. Their waitress passed by, and before Ellie could say anything Alex had flagged him down and slipped his debit card into her hand. “Here, if you could run this for the two salads and the drink, I’d appreciate it!” He smiled politely before turning back to Ellie. She’d taken time out of her day to show him around. The least he could do is pay for her lunch. @KillahxKylie

'It's nothing to feel bad over' It's almost like he could see inside her head and that alone scared her. She didn't like it when people could read her so easily, not when she had so many things that she needed to hide. "I honestly don't know of any in the area but I've never done it before.. I think I've heard people talking about a soup kitchen that they do though?" She had heard someone talking about it when she was in the local hospital for treatment. They had swallowed a bottle of pills because it was one of the only ways to get a warm bed for the night. She remembered how sad it made her to hear that, she wondered if they ever ended up finding a place to stay. "Oh you don't have to-" she started to say when she saw him give his card to the waitress, she felt bad she couldn't imagine he had a ton of money yet having just moved and still taking classes. She wasn't exactly proud of it but she did have a fair amount of money from her family. Easier to make sure she could take care of herself than having to come and actually do it in person. "Thank you I really appreciate it" She smiled softly and kept working at her own food feeling the pressure to not keep him longer than she needed to she tried to eat fast. Think of something to say you idiot, you're being weird. "I'm glad you liked it, I haven't had anything I didn't like here. You'll have to come back sometime" She blushed a little hoping that it didn't come off like she was assuming he would want to see her again. @Deleted User

He took a sip of water, listening as she spoke to him. He set the glass down, smiling at her comment. “Well maybe you can join me when I do. It’s a big menu, and I could always use the spot on recommendation.” Now you’re just flirting, you whore. Pull yourself together. Should be fuckin’ ashamed of yourself. “I-if you want to, I mean! I know I’ve already taken up a lot of your time here. So of course I’m gonna buy your lunch. It’s the least I can do!” He saw her eating quicker and furrowed his brow. “Please don’t eat quick on my account. I’ve got the who day free. Unless you’ve got someplace to be, but otherwise I’m just here to learn.” “Next to you mind if we just walk Main Street? I’d love for you to tell me what you can about the area. I saw a park yesterday too, if that’s worth stopping at?” He didn’t know what was cool to see in the area, Alex just didn’t want her to feel like she want planning everything or dragging him along. In all honesty, this was one of his more enjoyable and refreshing interactions he’d had in the past couple weeks. @KillahxKylie

"Oh um.. yeah maybe" she smiled a little and couldn't help but wonder if he was just offering to be polite or if he actually wanted to see her again. The second choice seemed almost impossible to her, until he spoke again and it almost seemed like he was nervous around her. Something she couldn't really wrap her head around. "I'd love to come with you again, and you haven't taken up much time." She added sensing that he really was nervous. Probably just new place jitters. "No no I have no place else to be.. sorry I didn't mean for it to come off that way I just didn't want to hold you up with my slow eating habits." She really didn't have anywhere else to be, she rarely ever did when she wasn't working. Sometimes she would leave her apartment but most days she lazed around just trying to pass the time. The idea of walking main street was both intriguing and terrifying to her. It was obviously one of the more busy areas and being around so many people made her anxious, being around people at all did but especially in bigger numbers. She tried to avoid it whenever possible. Work was one thing but aside from that she stayed to herself for the most part, doing her grocery shopping later at night, staying out of shopping malls and movie theaters. Wow you're so pathetic it's a walk for fucks sake. "Yeah a walk sounds great and honestly the parks are some of my favorite places." She smiled, they were one place where even if there were other people she could still keep her distance. @Deleted User

“The park it is! I thought I saw a few statues in there? You’ll have to bear with me because I will absolutely stop to read the plaques.” He smiled as he wiped his mouth. The waitress returned his card and he quickly signed the receipts. He buried the grimace at the cost. well Alex, you can afford one more coffee until that check clears. Good fucking luck. He leaned back, letting the food settle. “Whenever you’re ready, I’m all yours. Just lead the way.” He smiled over at her. You never listen do you? You already know how this will end, knucklehead. @KillahxKylie

She couldn't help but giggle a little when he said he would stop to read all of the plaques. He really is cute. Too bad nobody would ever be dumb enough to stick around you, certainly not romantically. I mean why are you even thinking about that you've known him for like three seconds. "No worries I don't think I've ever actually stopped to read them myself if I'm being honest." She finished her salad just a few minutes later still eating just a little bit quicker than she normally would but not at a pace that was alarming like before. "Alright I think I'm finally done, shall we?" She asked before she got up from her spot and straightened out her dress a little. "Hopefully the weather stays nice for us." She made her way towards the door trying to keep herself from compulsively looking over at him over and over again once they got outside and started to walk. "Oh did you still want to check out main street? We've got plenty of day left and I don't mind if you do" @Deleted User (edited)

“I hope so too. The weather’s been lovely so far today, it’d be nice if it holds up!” He let the shorter girl walk about ahead of him. Hazel-green eyes, cute hair, great style, and she’s the perfect size. We’re in trouble, aren’t we? For once today his internal monologue as right. She was his type. “Tell you what, I’ve taken a ton of your time today. Maybe I’m selfish enough to ask if you could show me around Main Street another day when we do this again? I think the parks are more than enough of your generosity for today. I hate imposing on people.” He really did hate it. He already felt like he’d taken advantage of this relative stranger somehow. First he randomly asked her for a tour, now his mind is drifting places it shouldn’t, no places it can’t. The park plus main street would almost certainly spell disaster. @KillahxKylie

"When we do this again.' Not if? He really wants to see me again? There's no way. "Oh it's not a problem but that also works for me." She smiled politely still in disbelief that he wanted to see her again and that he thought she was being generous. He had been the one to pay for everything all she had done was drag herself out of her apartment. If only he knew he was really the one doing everything. "I've had a lot of fun today just so you know.. I'm not in a rush to get home and do nothing so please don't worry about it." She couldn't just let him think that he was being a hassle or taking up her time in any way. Let alone her generosity which she really didn't even think she had I mean wasn't it a chore for anyone to want to be around her? She felt her eyebrows pinching in thought and shook her head a little as if she could literally shake the thought. "I hope you like the park, I personally think it's really pretty and it's nice getting to be around the trees" Wow because that's not weird to say. "Just- there's so much less nature around nowadays you know?" @Deleted User

He perked up at her comment about nature. “I’m so glad you said that!” He fell in step with her as they started walking toward the park. “I feel like there just isn’t enough emphasis put on just being out in nature. Coming from Colorado almost every weekend was spent hiking, or skiing, or canoeing. I got to San Francisco and there were people who’d never left the city! Like, hello? Red Wood National Park isn’t even that far away! Blows my mind.” He got a little sheepish after talking so passionately before. “Sorry, rant over.” I smirked a little, embarrassed as if showing something he was passionate about was a bad that. “After the park if you really aren’t in a rush you’re welcome to come by my place if you want? I sometimes have a little night cap before I turn in, and I’d love to get your advise on how I could cozy up the space.” Alex blushed ever so slightly as he extended the invite. He really hadn’t meant anything by it, but sometimes his mouth just ran quicker than his brain. @KillahxKylie

"I've never seen it, I really want to I just haven't... Gotten around to it" Left your apartment long enough to experience anything is more like it. "The redwood forest I mean, and of course everything in Colorado because I've never been but-" she blushed a little "It's nice to meet someone else who enjoys the outdoors is what I'm trying to say. And you can rant all you want it's- it's not bad to enjoy things or feel strongly." You really almost said out loud that it was cute? What is wrong with you? "Oh um- I-" No no no no no no no you cannot go over to his place you know exactly what he's gonna try and then you'll definitely be attached. "Sure that sounds nice I like to think my own place is pretty cozy." Idiot. Absolute idiot. @Deleted User

He chuckled. “I don’t doubt it’s cozier than mine!” He thought of the unmade bed, open blanket on the couch, and the bowl he’d left on the coffee table. She’s going to think you live like an animal, Alex. Stupid. You’re stupid. “I know my strengths. Skiing? Check. European and Native American history? For sure. Cramming an 80-page term paper in just two days? Absolutely. Interior design, however? Nah. That’s a weak point for me. I take one look at you and I know you’ll have a few pointers for me.” He rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassed he’d need the help. How long are you going to keep lying to yourself that you just want this girl to help you interior decorate? I get it. You’re drawn to her. But you gotta quit. Nip this in the bud. We don’t want to go through this again. Or did you already forget what Sam did to us? Or Jamie before that?