+ struggled with his usual stoic demeanorโฆ Yet, Cathie's openness was slowly chipping away at his walls.
Sheโs definitely a lot different than most people heโs metโฆ and not in a bad way, of course.
โโฆ Thanks, though.โ He said, his voice sounding just a bit more genuine.
+ concern. Her soft giggle made him feel a bit more at ease, strangely enough.
"You're not offending me," he adds on, his crimson eyes slowly shifting back to face her.
In that moment, he felt a mix of relief and unease. He wasnโt used to this kind of connection and +
Jake nodded slightly, still avoiding eye contact.
"It's fine. I'm just... not used to sharingโฆโ He exhales slowly. She probably knew that already, just by looking at him.
He could feel the awkwardness settling in, but there was something comforting about Cathie's genuine +
[ Cathie didn't falter, instead her smile only widened while she slowly started to nod-- acknowledging his response. She was aware that his answer would've been along those lines.
It wasn't that she expected him to just put everything out on display, especially considering the -
+ very comfortable justโฆ venting to just anyone. Even if Cathie meant well, it wasnโt in his nature to open up so quickly.
โโฆ Iโll keep that in mind.โ He adds on, mumbling.
There was a moment of silence on his end. His eyes lingered, following her movements as she moved wisps of hair out of her face.
His gaze then adverts, unable to find a proper response to her offer.
โOh, uhโฆ I appreciate it.โ Was all he could muster. He wasnโt +
Well...
[ Cathie hummed, thinking on it. He'd probably decline, but she found herself parting her lips to put the offer out there anyway. ]
Considering you listened to me, I am willing to listen to you, Jake.
I'd hate to seem like someone who only wants to hear their own -