Putting it behind us

"you were going back to your hometown to visit your family for Christmas. You've heard that your brother Daniel have gotten engaged , you couldn't get to their wedding but it was a good time to meet them at least. the night before you get to your parents house you stopped in a hotel"

"That night you went to a bar and met a random girl there , you talked a bit and as something led to the other you ended up hooking up with her"

"Next day you woke up a bit uneasy about what happened but decided to put is aside and went to your parents house"

"After talking with everyone and all the handshaking and stuff you got to the living room, there you saw Daniel sitting beside an awfully familiar girl... An awfully awfully familiar girl..."

"Maria looks up at you both surprised and embarrassed"

(Maria): Clown 🎭🃏 ?

"Your brother smiles as he shakes hands with you"

(Daniel): oh you know eachother?

(Maria) "looking away" uh , yeah we went to the... Same college...

"You find a quiet spot on the balcony, away from the chatter inside. The chilly air soothes your nerves as you try to process the whirlwind of emotions from last night. The memory of the girl from the bar flashes in your mind, along with the guilt of betraying Maria's trust."

"Meanwhile, Maria's heart races with anxiety as she watches you slip away to the balcony. She knows she has to face you, to confront the awkwardness head-on, but her legs feel like jelly and her mind is a jumbled mess."

"Taking a deep breath, Maria gathers her courage and follows you out to the balcony."

(Maria): Um... mind if I join you?

"She nods, grateful for your warm welcome, and takes a seat beside you, careful to leave a bit of space between you."

(Maria): Thanks... um... it's nice out here, isn't it?

"She smiles back, feeling a bit of tension dissipate."

(Maria): So... um... how have you been? It's been a while since Daniel mentioned you were coming to visit.

(Maria): Oh, it's alright. Things happen, and I'm sure you had your reasons. Besides, it's nice to finally meet you, even if it's a bit unexpected.

"She offers a small, understanding smile, hoping to ease any lingering discomfort."

"She chuckles softly, appreciating your attempt to lighten the mood."

(Maria): Yeah, I guess you're right. Funny how things work out sometimes, huh?

"Her expression softens as she recalls the memories of her relationship with Daniel, a warmth spreading through her chest."

(Maria): Oh, Daniel and I met in college, actually. We were both studying literature, and we happened to be in the same class. He was always so... kind and patient, you know? We hit it off pretty quickly, and before we knew it, we were spending all our time together. It's been about four years now, I think. He proposed last year, and... well, here we are.

(Maria): Thank you. Sure, what would you like to know? Well, I guess you could say I'm a bit of a bookworm. I love reading, especially fiction and mystery novels. Cooking is another passion of mine. There's something therapeutic about creating something delicious from scratch. And, uh, I enjoy spending time outdoors, too. Gardening is one of my favorite pastimes. Oh, and I have a guilty pleasure for cheesy TV shows, the kind that you watch when you just want to unwind and not think about anything too serious. "She smiles, feeling a bit more at ease as she shares a glimpse into her interests." What about you? What do you enjoy doing?

(Maria): That sounds lovely. Writing short stories and poems must be quite cathartic, don't you think? And drawing, too. It's wonderful to have creative outlets like that. As for movies and comedy shows, they're great for unwinding. Do you have any favorite genres or specific movies/shows you enjoy?

(Maria): Ah, I see. Writing and drawing as emotional outlets, that's really admirable. I can totally relate to using art as a coping mechanism. As for your favorite movie genres, action, romantic comedies, and sci-fi? Those are quite diverse! I'm personally more into rom-coms myself, but I can definitely appreciate the thrill and excitement that come with action and sci-fi films. And wow, you enjoy watching Friends and The Simpsons, too? Those are such classic shows! I remember binge-watching Friends during my college days, and I still catch reruns of The Simpsons every now and then. They never seem to get old, do they?

(Maria): "Chuckling" That's hilarious! It's like having your own private sitcom playing in the background of your life. I can imagine how comforting and nostalgic it must feel to have those familiar voices and jokes around you. And quoting parts of the script? That's just the cherry on top! It sounds like a cozy setup, especially during those lazy evenings at home. Do you have a favorite character from either show?

(Maria): Chandler and Phoebe are such fantastic characters! Chandler's sarcasm and wit, combined with Phoebe's quirky and unique personality, make for some truly memorable moments. And Homer Simpson, well, he's an icon! His cluelessness and antics never fail to bring a smile to my face. It's great that you appreciate the entire ensemble cast, though. They each bring something special to the table. Do you have any favorite episodes or moments from either show?

(Maria): Oh, the lobster theory! That's such a sweet and iconic moment. Phoebe has a way of seeing love in the most unconventional but heartwarming ways. The idea that lobsters mate for life and that Ross and Rachel are meant to be together is just so romantic, don't you think? It's one of those scenes that really captures the essence of the show's humor and heart. Do you have any other favorite moments or episodes from Friends or The Simpsons?

(Maria): Really? I hadn't heard about that! It's fascinating how behind-the-scenes decisions can have such a significant impact on the direction of a show. Courteney Cox's influence on the Ross and Rachel storyline must have been quite impactful. Do you happen to know what specific changes were made because of her input? It's always interesting to learn about the creative process behind our favorite TV shows.

(Maria): That's quite a surprising turn of events! It's understandable that Courteney Cox would have concerns about the show's dynamics, especially given her personal relationship with the producer. However, it's unfortunate that her actions ended up affecting the show's popularity and ratings. It just goes to show how delicate the balance can be in maintaining a successful television series. Despite the challenges they faced, Friends still remains beloved by fans around the world. It's a testament to the enduring charm and appeal of the show's characters and humor. Do you think the change in focus impacted your enjoyment of the later seasons of Friends?

(Maria): It's understandable how changes in character dynamics can affect our perception of the show. Rachel and Monica definitely had their own unique appeal and storylines, and it's unfortunate that their characters may have taken a backseat after the shift in focus. As for Rachel's treatment of Ross, it's always difficult to see beloved characters undergo changes, especially when it affects their relationships with others. Do you feel like the later seasons of Friends were still able to capture the same magic and humor despite these challenges?

(Maria): It's heartbreaking to hear about the struggles that Matthew Perry faced, especially considering how much joy and laughter he brought to millions of fans through his portrayal of Chandler Bing. The pressures of fame and the demands of the entertainment industry can take a toll on anyone, and it's unfortunate that he experienced such difficult times. It's a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, there are real people dealing with real challenges. I hope that he's been able to find the support and help he needs to overcome those obstacles and find peace and happiness in his life. It's important to remember to prioritize our mental health and well-being, no matter our circumstances.

(Maria): "She chuckles softly, a hint of nervousness still lingering in her voice" Yes, back to the present moment. Quite the unexpected reunion, wouldn't you say? "She casts a fleeting glance in your direction, her cheeks flushing slightly before she looks away, fidgeting with the hem of her shirt." It's... um, quite a coincidence, meeting like this. "She tries to hide her discomfort with a small, awkward smile." So, how have you been?

(Maria): "She nods, her expression softening as she meets your gaze, a mixture of apprehension and curiosity in her eyes." You're right. It's probably best to address what happened rather than pretend it didn't. "Her voice is gentle, tinged with a hint of vulnerability." I... I'm sorry for any awkwardness or discomfort I may have caused. It was... unexpected, to say the least. "She takes a deep breath, gathering her thoughts." If there's anything you want to say or ask, I'm here to listen.

(Maria): "She lets out a small, relieved laugh, grateful for the tension being broken." Yeah, it's definitely not the easiest topic to broach, is it? "She shifts slightly in her seat, trying to find a comfortable position." Maybe we could start with... well, I guess, acknowledging what happened. "Her cheeks flush slightly as she speaks, but she maintains eye contact with you, willing herself to be brave." Last night was... unexpected, to say the least. And I understand if it caught you off guard as well. "She pauses, her gaze searching yours for any sign of understanding or acceptance." I just want to say... I'm sorry if things got... complicated because of me.

(Maria): "She takes a moment to collect her thoughts, her gaze dropping to her lap before she meets your eyes again." Daniel and I... we've been together for a while now. "A fond smile tugs at the corners of her lips as she speaks." He's... he's amazing, really. Kind, supportive, understanding... everything I could ever ask for in a partner. "Her voice softens with affection as she talks about him." But... "she hesitates, her expression growing more serious." Lately, I've been feeling... I don't know, insecure, I guess. "She sighs softly, her fingers fidgeting with the fabric of her shirt." Sometimes I wonder if I'm... if I'm good enough for him, you know? *Her voice is barely above a whisper, tinged with self-doub

(Maria): "Her voice wavers slightly as she continues." I mean, he's... he's so successful, so confident, so... everything. And then there's me, stumbling through life, making mistakes left and right... "She trails off, her expression pained." I love him, Clown 🎭🃏, I really do. But sometimes I worry that... that maybe I'm not what he needs. That maybe I'm just holding him back, dragging him down with me. "Her admission hangs heavy in the air, vulnerability shining in her eyes as she looks at you, silently pleading for understanding." And last night... I don't know, I guess I was just... looking for something, anything, to quiet those doubts, if only for a moment. "She lets out a shaky breath, her shoulders slumping with the weight of her confession." But

(Maria): "she continues, her voice barely a whisper." But it was a mistake, a foolish, reckless mistake. "She shakes her head, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment." I shouldn't have... I shouldn't have done what I did. "Her gaze drops, unable to meet yours as she speaks." I betrayed Daniel's trust, I betrayed... "she trails off, unable to finish her sentence, the weight of her actions heavy on her conscience." I'm so sorry, Clown 🎭🃏. I never meant for any of this to happen. "Her voice is filled with genuine remorse, her eyes pleading for forgiveness as she looks up at you."

"Maria's eyes widen in surprise at your words, a mixture of relief and gratitude flooding her features."

(Maria): "Her voice is soft, filled with emotion." Thank you, Clown 🎭🃏... "She swallows hard, blinking back tears." Thank you for understanding, for... for being so kind. "A small, hesitant smile tugs at the corners of her lips." And... and you're right. "She nods, her expression thoughtful." I need to stop doubting myself, to believe that I'm... that I'm worthy of Daniel's love, just as I am. "Her gaze meets yours, filled with newfound determination." I won't let my insecurities get the best of me anymore. "She takes a deep breath, her posture straightening with resolve." And as for yesterday... *she hesitates, her cheeks flushing with

embarrassment.* Let's just chalk it up to... a moment of weakness. "She manages a weak chuckle, trying to lighten the mood." A foolish, drunken mistake that I deeply regret. "Her eyes meet yours, filled with sincerity." I promise, Clown 🎭🃏, it won't happen again. "She holds your gaze, silently pleading for your forgiveness and understanding."

"Maria's eyes widen slightly at your confession, surprise flickering across her features before she quickly composes herself."

(Maria): "Her voice is soft, tinged with curiosity." Is that so, Clown 🎭🃏? "She tilts her head slightly, her gaze searching yours." And yet... "she hesitates, a playful glint dancing in her eyes." And yet, here we are. "She offers you a teasing smile, her tone light and playful as she gently nudges your arm with her elbow." It seems we both made exceptions to our usual rules, didn't we?

(Maria): "She chuckles softly, a warmth spreading through her as she feels a sense of camaraderie with you." Well, then, Clown 🎭🃏, it seems we have a shared experience to bond over. "Her smile widens, genuine and infectious." Who would've thought, right? "She leans in slightly, lowering her voice conspiratorially." Just between us, though, I think we both could do with a little more caution in the future, don't you think? "Her eyes twinkle mischievously as she awaits your response."

(Maria): "Her smile softens, a sense of relief washing over her as she nods in agreement." Yes, let's leave it in the past where it belongs. "She meets your gaze, gratitude evident in her eyes." Thank you, Clown 🎭🃏. "Her voice is sincere, filled with appreciation for your understanding and support."