In Another Lifetime By Yosh Episode 18A Chapter by Yosh How does the rest of the day unfold for the trio? What happens to Calista's assumptions about Marvin's next steps? How are Marvin and his friend Russell doing? TW: This story will address sensitive subjects, including homophobia, abandonment, death, mental health struggles, the implications of suicide, etc. Please be mindful of these topics before you continue reading. In Another Lifetime by Yosh ____________________________________________________________ Reading key: Anything to the side in bold is narration. Anything to the side with a "character's name:" are inner thoughts. Anything in bold italics and regular italics are stage directions. Lines are numbered for the reader to keep track. Anything () is extra information. ____________________________________________________________ Episode 18: The day is April 17th, 2023. It's a late Monday evening. Before Marvin calls Calista through Russell's phone as he drives him to her place, he and Russell catch up on a lot with each other, with Marvin explaining how he ended up in 2023 to him. Marvin questions Russell, seeking his reassurance after going through everything. Marvin Line 1) I think I covered everything. How are you holding up? Russell looks at Marvin speechlessly, feeling overwhelmed as he processes everything Marvin has just told him. Marvin releases a chuckle of amusement, finding his friend's reaction endearing. Marvin Line 2) I did warn you by saying to disregard everything you previously believed to be humanly possible.* This situation bends all of those limits, doesn't it? *Refer back to episode 17, line 15. Russell zones out as he tries his best to accept unbelievable news. Marvin intently analyzes his friend, with his eyebrows furrowing in concern. He questions his friend apprehensively, feeling remorseful. Marvin Line 3) ... Should I have not approached you? Russell swerves his head toward Marvin, gazing into his eyes offendedly from the rude question. He replies in a betrayed manner. Russell Line 4) H-how can you say that? Marvin speaks in a tone of worry, elaborating shyly from feeling intrusive about his presence. Marvin Line 5) I just feel like I'm burdening you by involving you in this situation. I know it's a lot to take in. It's what made me so hesitant about directly reaching out to you first without giving my secretive plans a shot.* *Refer back to episode 14, lines 104�"108, etc. Marvin explains in guilt. Marvin Line 6) Putting all of this on you was my last resort. I didn't know what else Calista and I could've done to have you comply with our fake approach about her being a social worker. You weren't convinced enough.* *Refer back to episode 16, lines 117 and 119. Russell speaks reassuringly, understanding Marvin's perspective and dialing down from his initial treachery. Russell Line 7) I said screw it, though.* If I had known you were brought to this time and you hadn't approached me, I would've been devastated. I'm glad you did, so don't feel guilty. If I were you, I would've done the same thing. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You must cease it. Put yourself first, Marvin. *Refer back to episode 17, line 21. Marvin glances at Russel in uncertainty, continuing to feel regretful. Russell looks into Marvin's eyes wistfully, speaking sentimentally. Russell Line 8) I've missed you immensely, Marvin. You have no idea how happy I am to see you, though I'm extremely shocked. Russell pats Marvin's shoulder comfortingly, smiling at him bittersweetly. Russell Line 9) You're truly a blast from the past. Still the same old Marvin I remember and love. Marvin's eyebrows slant touchingly, feeling Russell's affection. He lays his head on Russell's shoulder, with Russell embracing him into a side hug. Marvin speaks curiously, his delivery of speech enthusiastic. Marvin Line 10) I'm very glad you're alive and doing well, Russ. What have you been up to these past 56 years?* *Remember that 56 years have passed ever since 1967�"2023 (refer back to episode 6, line 68). Russell releases a chuckle of amusement, finding Marvin's query untimely. He speaks in a manner that conveys clarification and suggestfulness. Russell Line 11) It's getting late, you. You should head back over to Ms. Thakur and her other friend's place. We can save a recap of my life for another time, with Cady involved, too. You want to meet her, right? Marvin's eyes sparkle in excitement, speaking enthusiastically. Marvin Line 12) Of course, I do! I utterly gasped when you mentioned her name as I was listening to your conversation with Calista.* I'm so happy to hear that she's alive as well! What a relief! I can't wait to see her! *Refer back to episode 16, line 93. Russell questions Marvin curiously. Russell Line 13) Say, you're 28. So, Cady hasn't gotten with Jax yet, right?* *Remember that Marvin and Russell's other friends, Jax and Cady, have crushes on each other (refer back to episode 12, lines 78 and 79). Marvin questions Russell in shock, feeling excited about Russell's tease about their friends' relationship. Marvin Line 14) They eventually got together?! Finally! It was about damn time for those two! Russell elaborates enthusiastically, feeling giddy about breaking the great news to Marvin. Russell Line 15) Right? Not only did they get together, but they also stayed together for a very long time, married and everything, having two kids and then eventually grandkids, of course. Marvin questions Russell apprehensively, his eyebrows furrowing in confusion because of Russell's use of past tense in his statement. Marvin Line 16) I'm assuming Jax has passed away since when Calista called his number; the other person on the line said we had the wrong one.* But could it be that he and Cady got a divorce? Your statement slightly insinuates that speculation. *Refer back to episode 15, lines 120�"125, etc. Russell shakes his head no in heartache, alluding that Marvin's initial assumption is correct. Marvin's eyebrows drop in sorrow. Russell speaks in a melancholic manner. Russell Line 17) He had a good run. He lived a great life. They were happily married to each other. There was never a dull moment. It was a beautiful sight to see them loving each other ever so genuinely. Russell's eyes twitch in hesitancy, confirming other devastating news to Marvin as he comes to a realization while they're on the topic. Russell Line 18) You know that Todd also passed away, right? Marvin answers Russell upsettingly, rubbing his temples in anguish. Marvin Line 19) Yes.* It's so difficult to fathom these losses. I really wish they were here right now. *Refer back to episode 9, lines 98 and 99, etc. Russell speaks reminiscently, his voice bearing a deep weight of experience. Russell Line 20) I feel the same way, buddy. Yeah... The sad thing I've come to realize the older I get is that your loved ones don't stay for as long as you anticipate them to. It's truly a miracle if they do, though. Russell speaks wisely. Russell Line 21) It's hard to accept, but it's part of the circle of life. It was bound to happen one way or another, and everyone will eventually feel it, unfortunately. Russell's tone changes into an appreciative one as he reflects on his life, trying to lift Marvin's spirits, rediverting their sad conversation. Russell Line 22) I've learned to be grateful that I was able to be with them before they passed away. I'm honored to have been their friend before their lives met an end. I look back on all of our memories fondly, reliving various moments in a daydream. Russell Line 23) I try my best to appreciate the present and savor every moment of my life possible so as not to take anything for granted. Before you know it, 50 years have passed and various loved ones have passed away. It all happened within the blink of an eye. Russell pats Marvin's shoulder reassuringly, speaking in a manner that provides solace. Russell Line 24) Don't worry. This is just how life is. When we start taking steps to accomplish your unfinished business, you'll be sent back in no time and live the life you were supposed to. Keep your head up, Marvin. I'm here for you. Russell looks into Marvin's eyes faithfully, speaking supportively. Russell Line 25) It's bittersweet to think that this interaction between you and me doesn't have a mark on the timeline, but I'm sure my advice will get to you somehow once everything reverses.* After all, everything that's occurred with you has been magical. There's no way my wish can't be granted, don't you think? *Refer back to episode 5, lines 92�"96. Marvin replies in a tender voice, feeling touched by Russell's sweet words. Russell smirks at Marvin understandingly, conveying a mutual feeling as him. Marvin Line 26) You're right. Thank you, Russ. It's as if a weight has been lifted off my shoulders with you by my side. I appreciate you immensely. A moment of silence passes between them. A thought comes rushing to Russell's mind, prompting him to question Marvin in a tone of curiosity. Russell Line 27) Quick question, do you want to continue living with Ms. Thakur and her friend? Marvin looks into Russell's eyes in confusion, wondering what he's going on about. Russell explains himself, his voice bearing compassion as he looks out for Marvin, notes of excitement notable. Russell Line 28) I could offer you a place to stay if that would make you feel more comfortable. Marvin thinks through Russell's request, pondering his choices. He answers in uncertainty. Marvin Line 29) I appreciate the offer, Russ, but please let me think about it. I would like to discuss it with Calista and Talulla and see what they think. After all, I don't think they would mind since we've only known each other for a couple of days... Russell speaks in a direct manner, his tone inquisitive. Russell Line 30) But do you mind? What do you want to do, Marvin? Do you want them to continue contributing to your journey? Or is it best to part ways? Marvin's eyes tighten in contemplation. He answers Russell informatively, letting his thoughts flow as he indecisively thinks about his choices. Marvin Line 31) It would be cruel to part ways, don't you think? They've done so much to help me. Of course, I'll leave their place if it'd be less burdensome for them, but I don't want to completely cease our connection. We really hit it off. I would like to become friends with them. Marvin speaks precautiously, feeling like a nuisance. As his body language becomes timid, his shoulders tense in response to his feelings. Marvin Line 32) We also need to factor in whether or not it's burdensome for me to live with you. Don't you live with your grandkids? Russell elaborates in joy. Russell Line 33) No. I live with my wife, but my kids and grandkids visit often, which is why one of them picked up your call earlier today.* They were playing games on my phone. Little rascal~ *Refer back to episode 15, line 136. Russell speaks reassuringly, his demeanor welcoming and comforting. Russell Line 34) It wouldn't be burdensome for my wife and I to take you in at all. We have a guest-bedroom greatly available that you can stay in, with a bathroom of your own and everything. Marvin responds timidly, feeling invasive if he were to accept Russell's request. Marvin Line 35) I don't want you to have to worry about feeding another mouth. I only have $3.65 on me. I've already been broken with the bad news about that amounting to nothing in modern times.* I have nothing to offer you, Russ. *Refer back to episode 7, details in between lines 20 and 21, including lines 21�"28, etc. Russell giggles, realizing the affiliation of inflation on Marvin's account. Russell Line 36) That's not a lot but doesn't completely amount to nothing. You could probably buy a pack of candy with that money. Russell explains consolingly, with his tone slightly boastful. Russell Line 37) Anyway, you don't have to worry about expenses, Marvin. I'm not the same broke guy I used to be. I eventually got my life together, and now I'm pretty well off. Marvin answers in an impressed manner. Marvin Line 38) Wow! Look at you! That's great to hear! Russell smiles at Marvin happily, feeling proud of himself for his friend's support. He continues providing him reassurance, speaking welcomingly. Russell Line 39) Hehe. Thanks. But as I was saying, feeding another mouth will be no problem for me. Your company is more than enough. Don't feel the need to offer or owe me anything. I'm your friend. That's not how our dynamics should be. Marvin replies patiently, gazing into Russell's eyes appreciatively. Marvin Line 40) Thanks for being so sweet, Russ. I appreciate the offer, but as I mentioned earlier, I want to know what the girls have to say about this.* Do you mind waiting? *Refer back to line 29 of this episode. Russell smirks at Marvin smugly, coming to a playful conclusion. He nudges Marvin's elbow, speaking giddily as he puts him on the spot. Russell Line 41) I don't mind at all, but it seems like you mainly want to hear what Ms. Thakur has to say, huh~? Marvin tilts his head to the side puzzlingly, wondering what Russell is alluding to. Russell stands up from the park's bench, stretching his back and lending a hand for Marvin to get up as well. He speaks in a compassionate tone, smiling at Marvin caringly. Russell Line 42) Let's get you situated for the night. Marvin gently accepts Russell's hand, and the two of them head over to his car, which is parked in the parking lot of Magnolia Tree Park (refer back to episode 16, line 28). Marvin examines Russell's car captivatingly, deeply fascinated by its high-tech appearance. The two of them get situated inside, with Marvin sitting in the passenger's seat. Russell speaks suggestingly, his voice filled with encouragement. Russell Line 43) Want to give Ms. Thakur a heads-up that you'll be heading over to her place? Marvin nods his head agreeably. Russell pulls out his phone from his pocket, searching for Calista's number in his contacts list. He finds it, pressing the call button, while passing the phone over to Marvin to speak with her. Marvin places Russell's phone to his ear rigidly from the unfamiliar position, waiting for Calista to answer the call. After a couple of seconds, Calista answers the call, and we are in present times (refer back to episode 17; details in between lines 113 and 114). Marvin speaks in a friendly manner, feeling happy about speaking with Calista. Marvin Line 44) Hey, Calista. How are you? *Shot cuts to Calista speaking with Marvin at her place in the kitchen as she continues to help Talulla make dinner. Calista responds in relief, feeling reassured about Marvin's check-up on her. Calista Line 45) Hey, Marvin. I'm okay. Just helping Talulla out with dinner since she got back from work not too long ago. How are you doing with Mr. Russell? Marvin responds at ease, speaking informatively. Marvin Line 46) We're doing well. Thanks for asking. He's about to drive me to your place and suggested giving you a heads-up that I'll be there soon. Calista speaks understandingly, questioning Marvin by seeking his clarification. Calista Line 47) Oh. How nice of him... Well, I'll see you then. You remember how to get into our apartment complex, right? And what about our apartment number? Marvin speaks reassuringly, putting Calista at ease. Marvin Line 48) I remember it all. Thank you for reminding me. I'll see you soon. Calista replies in a hopeful manner, with her eyes glimmering yearnfully. Calista Line 49) See you. Tell Mr. Russell that I said thank you for offering to drive you to our place. It's very considerate of him. I appreciate the gesture immensely. Marvin responds in a trustworthy voice. Marvin Line 50) You got it Calista. Thank you for your understanding. The two of them hang up their call. Marvin passes Russell's phone over to him, with Russell punching in Calista's address to drive Marvin to her place. Marvin speaks enthusiastically. Marvin Line 51) She said thank you for offering to drive me back. She really appreciates it. Russell nods his head smugly. Marvin examines the maps app on Russell's phone that portrays the route to Calista's place. He speaks excitedly. Marvin Line 52) Calista told me about phones displaying maps nowadays.* It's so convenient and cool! I wish I had come up with the idea! *Refer back to episode 14, line 76. Russell speaks amusingly. Russell Line 53) Well, aren't you just so precious? Marvin looks at Russell in confusion, feeling a bit unsettled by his language. Russell speaks playfully, smirking at Marvin mischievously. Russell Line 54) Not only are you completely fascinated by modern advancements, but you're also completely fascinated with Ms. Thakur! Marvin's face flushes a bright hue of red. He responds flusteredly, the passion for his defense adamant. Marvin Line 55) A-are you insane?! Don't sputter such nonsense! Russell speaks teasingly, his voice encouraging. Russell Line 56) Your defensiveness is not helping you plead your case~ My boy's smitten~ Marvin releases a timid mumble, drooping his shoulders shyly. Marvin Line 57) Quit your teasing... Russell answers empathetically. Russell Line 58) Fine, but now I understand why you're so hesitant about living without her. The pieces just clicked together. Russell speaks supportively, wanting to motivate Marvin. Russell Line 59) She should honestly be your primal candidate when it comes to completing your unfinished business,* if you know what I mean~ *Refer back to episode 13, lines 29�"38, and lines 86 and 87. Marvin rolls his eyes in playful annoyance, feeling the butterflies in his stomach get all antsy from Russell's flustering remarks. After some time, Russell finally arrives at Calista and Talulla's place, coming to a stop to drop Marvin off. Russell speaks in a manner that wishes well. Russell Line 60) Well, we're here. Marvin unbuckles his seat belt, speaking appreciatively towards Russell. Marvin Line 61) Thank you for everything today, Russ. I know I've said this about a hundred times by now, but I'm glad you're alive. Russell speaks mutually, smiling at Marvin happily. Russell Line 62) I'm glad you're alive, too, buddy. Let's arrange a meet-up with Cady sometime soon.* Don't forget that I'm just a call away. I'm here for you whenever you need me. *Refer back to line 11 of this episode. Marvin speaks agreeably, looking forward to their next hangout. Marvin Line 63) You got it. Have a good night, Russ. Russell opens up his arms, signaling for Marvin to embrace him. Marvin leans into Russell, wrapping his arms around him for a tight hug. Russell speaks compassionately, his affection for Marvin sincere. Russell Line 64) Have a good night, too, Marvin. Take care of yourself, and don't worry too much. They pull back from each other, with Marvin exiting Russell's car to make his way over to the girls' place. Russell drives off when he sees Marvin knock on the girls' door. Calista opens the door for Marvin, looking at him happily. She speaks welcomingly. Calista Line 65) Welcome back, you. Marvin replies in a friendly manner. Marvin Line 66) Hey, there. Thank you for letting me hang with my friend for a bit. Talulla approaches Marvin out of the kitchen, speaking informatively. Talulla Line 67) Hey, Marvin. Dinner's ready. Marvin takes his shoes off, wandering over to the prepped dinner table. He looks at it in pleasant surprise, not expecting a lavish table to have been set for the evening. Marvin Line 68) Wow! You've cooked up quite a feast! Talulla speaks proudly, nudging Calista's elbow smugly. Talulla Line 69) Calista helped me out. Marvin looks at Talulla and Calista appreciatively. Calista looks at Marvin timidly, drooping her head down in embarrassment for feeling put on the spot. Marvin Line 70) Thank you two so much. It seems I must've kept you gals waiting. My apologies. Talulla speaks in a bluntly reassuring manner. Talulla Line 71) You sort of did, but it's fine. Now, go wash your hands before the food gets cold. Let's dig in. Marvin does just that, making his way over to the dinner table to feast with the girls after washing his hands. They all eat together, with Calista explaining to Marvin about her encounter with Teresa earlier (refer back to episode 17, lines 45�"65). After Calista's explanation, Marvin tells Talulla and Calista about what he talked about with Russell, saving the part about his offer for last. Calista speaks at ease. Calista Line 72) I'm glad you two met and talked with each other. Marvin smiles at Calista appreciatively for her kind words. Talulla questions Marvin curiously. Talulla Line 73) Are you thinking of revealing yourself to anyone else besides your other friend?* Like perhaps Teresa or Elouise? *Remember that Marvin plans to reveal himself to Cady (refer back to lines 11 and 62 of this episode). Marvin's eyes widen in shock, not anticipating Talulla to bring such a thought to his mind. He sits in silence, thinking about her question, eventually answering in uncertainty. Marvin Line 74) I... don't know if that's the best idea. I would gladly like to reveal myself to Teresa, but it seems like revealing anything to Elouise would end in disaster. Marvin speaks precautiously, with his eyebrows furrowing in concern. Marvin Line 75) At the moment, I'm solely comfortable with you gals and my friends knowing about my true identity. I don't want to string Teresa into this when I'm not sure if my reveal would do her any good, though I know she mentioned she had wished she had gotten to know me.* *Refer back to episode 9, lines 70 and 71, etc. Marvin Line 76) Either way, wouldn't she be upset about me lying about being a psychologist to know about her family?* Even if I'm her grandfather, there's no excuse for my deception. Marvin Line 77) I don't know how I can help her out with her issues with Elouise. It seems like my involvement would cause more harm than good. With that being said, we should put it to the side for now. *Refer back to episode 7, lines 97, 108, and 109, etc. Talulla speaks agreeably, her tone consoling to put Marvin at ease, sensing his anxiousness. Talulla Line 78) It's your call. I definitely think you're making the right choice, though. Calista nods her head agreeably. Marvin smiles at the girls for their understanding. He speaks apprehensively, knowing he must bring up Russell's offer instead of procrastinating. Marvin Line 79) Besides that, there's this other thing that Russell and I talked about. He made me an offer... Calista's eyes widen in concern, with a variety of assumptions flooding her mind. Talulla glances at Calista, sensing where the conversation is going. Marvin Line 80) I haven't made up my mind about it because I want to hear what you two have to say, but he suggested I move in with him instead of living with you gals.* What do you all think of that? *Refer back to line 28 of this episode. Calista looks at Talulla upsettingly, feeling defeated. Talulla speaks in a direct manner. Talulla Line 81) Again, Marvin, it's your call. You make the decision you believe to be best. Our thoughts don't matter. Calista nods her head agreeably, smirking at Marvin bittersweetly, bracing herself for his verdict. Marvin speaks his mind, imagining himself in a hypothetical situation and feeling uncomfortable. Marvin Line 82) Well, though Russell's offer is great, I'd be having to live with his wife as well, to which he also mentioned that his kids and grandkids visit him often. How would I explain myself to them? I don't think telling all of them the truth is a good idea, but going with the facade that I'm just a random guy who lives with them seems very invasive to me. Marvin speaks yearnfully, his voice shy. Marvin Line 83) But he said taking care of me won't be an issue. He has the funds to do so and even a room for me to stay in. Either way, my preference is to stay with you two since I'm already situated here. Calista looks at Marvin in hope, her eyes glimmering in delight. Marvin speaks in a manner of concern, feeling immensely worried. Marvin Line 84) I don't want to seem burdensome to you two. Staying with you guys deals with a lot, stressing on finances, and I'm afraid I don't have much to offer. In that case, I was thinking of getting a job while I'm here. Marvin speaks suggestingly. Marvin Line 85) Since I don't know how long it'll take until I'm ready to go back home, staying here with you two means I should chip in just as much. Once Calista goes back to work, I can't just be at home on my own. It'd be more useful for me to work and make money instead. Marvin questions the girls curiously, his voice slightly desperate. Marvin Line 86) So, what do you gals think? Are you okay with me being your roommate for a bit? I promise I'll chip in for rent, utility bills, cleaning, making food, groceries, and more. You name it, and I'll do it, hopefully making enough once I get a job of some kind. But if you guys are uncomfortable with me being here, I can always go to my friend's place and figure things out there. Talulla glances at Calista for an answer, nodding her head to encourage Calista to speak her mind. Calista answers Marvin enthusiastically, looking forward to all of them living together. Calista Line 87) We're not uncomfortable with you staying here at all. We'd be more than happy to have you as our third roommate. But it's not necessary for you to get a job and help out with expenses. I can handle that. You should focus on your tasks and put time into them rather than work. Marvin replies in a manner of relief. Marvin Line 88) I can't possibly stay here for free. I'd like to make myself useful. But I'm glad to hear that you two are okay with me. Thank you for the acceptance. Talulla speaks suggestingly, wanting to put Marvin at ease. Talulla Line 89) You're welcome, Marvin. But Calista's right. Once you fulfill your unfinished business, everything will be reversed, including spent expenses. So you shouldn't worry about chipping in for that and rather focus on making progress in completing your goal. Marvin speaks sternly, passionate about his stance. Marvin Line 90) Either way, I thought we ruled out that what I do in the present matters.* I'm not trying to insinuate that you two can't afford to take me in for free; it just doesn't sit right with me to live for free while you two work hard all day at your jobs. I need to contribute just as equally as you gals do. *Refer back to episode 13, line 21. Marvin speaks analytically, breaking his tasks down logically. Marvin Line 91) Plus, making progress with completing my goal means going on dates to eventually find someone who works with my "limitations".* Do people date in broad daylight on weekdays? Most likely, everyone is working. Even if I do land with a person, I'd most likely have to accommodate their schedule, which by default seems like working for five days straight and having the weekends off. *Refer back to episode 13, lines 33�"38. Marvin speaks understandably. Marvin Line 92) It'd be much more preferable to do those kinds of things on the weekends when people are on break, right? This is exactly why I'll be working just like everyone else on the weekdays and then going out on the weekends. Talulla and Calista take Marvin's points into consideration, feeling impressed by his thought process. Talulla speaks in pleasant surprise. Talulla Line 93) Wow. You really thought this through, huh? Marvin nods his head humbly. Calista speaks encouragingly. Calista Line 94) If that's what you set your mind on doing, I won't stop you. You've brought up some valid points. Marvin speaks enthusiastically, glancing at the girls appreciatively. Marvin Line 95) Sounds like a plan. Thank you for hearing me out. They all finish eating dinner, with Marvin standing up to collect all of their plates. He speaks politely, perfectly encapsulating the demeanor of a gentleman. Marvin Line 96) Allow me to wash the dishes. It's the least I could do after you two made dinner and are allowing me to stay here for free for now. Talulla and Calista smile at Marvin appreciatively, giving him the green light on his offer. After dinner and doing dishes, they all unwind, giving each other time to do their separate routines in the bathroom, and getting ready to head to bed. Calista brings over blankets, sheets, and pillows for Marvin, preparing to make an area for him on the couch to sleep on. Marvin opens his arms, wanting Calista to pass the items over to him so he can prepare his makeshift bed himself. He speaks considerately. Marvin Line 97) I can do this myself. You should head to bed. You must be exhausted after today's events. Calista passes the items over to Marvin, gazing into his eyes appreciatively. Calista Line 98) If anything, I'm pretty sure you're the exhausted one, huh? Marvin responds determinedly. Marvin Line 99) I won't lie to you by saying that I'm not, but I'm still holding in there. A thought comes to Calista's mind, prompting her to speak in a committed manner. Calista Line 100) You know what? Why don't you borrow my bed for the night? I'll buy you a bed of your own tomorrow. Marvin looks at Calista in shock, speaking disapprovingly. Marvin Line 101) What?! You don't have to! Calista elaborates in concern, furrowing her eyebrows passionately. Calista Line 102) Oh, come on, Marvin! Look at yourself. You're all tensed up. That bumpy couch must be uncomfortable to sleep on. Your exhaustion, added on top of that, isn't helping. Since you're going to be living with us, you deserve to have a bed of your own to sleep on, but for now, just use mine. Marvin gently rejects Calista, not wanting to worry her. Marvin Line 103) Your offer is considerate, Calista. I appreciate you looking out for me, but I don't want you to buy a bed for my sake. The couch is more than enough. You should sleep in your own bed as it is rightfully yours. Calista speaks precautiously, disagreeing with Marvin. Calista Line 104) The couch is not good. When you get a job, you can pay me back if that will help you feel better about my suggestion, but for today, sleep on my bed. Calista Line 105) We haven't set out plans for tomorrow, but it's good for you to get proper sleep since we don't know what could be in store for us. Today was busy enough. Imagine what tomorrow will bring. Marvin responds sternly. Marvin Line 106) Firstly, where would you sleep? And secondly, it is most definitely an invasion of privacy for me to sleep in your bed. I'm not comfortable doing that, Calista. Calista speaks reassuringly. Calista Line 107) I can sleep on Talulla's bed. It's big enough to fit both of us, and I'm sure she won't mind. I can understand why you would think sleeping in my bed is an invasion of privacy. You don't have to do it if you're uncomfortable, but I just want you to get a good night's sleep. Calista speaks encouragingly, wanting Marvin to accept her offer. Calista Line 108) Think of my bed as just a bed. There's nothing to it besides providing someone something to sleep on. It may be mine, but it's just an object that doesn't have a mind of its own. It won't grow a mouth and judge you for sleeping on a girl's bed, saying you should be ashamed of yourself. Please don't feel that way if that's what you're thinking. Marvin analyzes Calista's persistence, releasing a sigh of distress. Marvin Line 109) Would it put you at ease if I slept on your bed? Calista responds eagerly. Calista Line 110) Yes. It would cease my guilt. Marvin's eyebrows furrow in concern. Line 111) Marvin's inner thoughts: I should just do it since she keeps on insisting. Calista preps her bed for Marvin, putting in fresh bed sheets, pillows, and blankets. Marvin lies down on Calista's bed, letting his exhaustion take over. She questions him reassuringly. Calista Line 112) See? It's not so bad, right? Simply just a bed, huh? Marvin replies to Calista in a sleepy voice. Marvin Line 113) Yeah. I guess it's not bad... Calista smiles at Marvin, feeling pleased about her usefulness. She speaks in a manner that wishes him well. Calista Line 114) Alright then, have a good night, Marvin. Marvin speaks appreciatively. Marvin Line 115) Thank you for this, Calista. I really mean it. Calista speaks leniently. Calista Line 116) It's no problem. Bye for now. Marvin speaks compassionately. Marvin Line 117) Have a good night. Bye. Calista waves Marvin off, exiting her room to head over to Talulla's. She creaks Talulla's door open, entering it and noticing her getting ready to hit the lights, already tucked into bed. She questions Calista curiously, wondering what she's unexpectedly doing in her room. Talulla Line 118) Oh. What's up, Calista? Calista speaks suggestingly. Calista Line 119) Hey. Would it be okay for me to sleep beside you for the night? Talulla questions Calista in confusion. Talulla Line 120) What? Why? Are you having nightmares about something? Calista explains herself, speaking in a clarifying manner. Calista Line 121) No, don't worry. I lent my bed to Marvin for the night since the couch wasn't doing him any justice. If you don't mind, could I sleep beside you? If not, I can sleep on the couch instead. Sorry for the rash request. Talulla speaks welcomingly. Talulla Line 122) You don't even have to ask. Get over here already! Calista smiles at Talulla for her friendliness, crawling into bed beside her. She gets tucked in, hitting the light. Calista speaks appreciatively, feeling thankful for Talulla's welcomeness. Calista Line 123) I'll do your bed and everything tomorrow morning. Leave it all to me. Thank you for this. Have a good night. Also, don't worry about making breakfast.* Just make sure to have a good day at work. *Refer back to episode 14, lines 10 and 11. Talulla replies happily. Talulla Line 124) Sounds like a plan. Good night... Talulla slides in a sly comment. Talulla Line 125) Lending your bed to Marvin is a bit of a huge suggestion. I'm not sure someone who sees him as a friend would say something like that. Calista's eyes widen in shock, not expecting Talulla to make such a remark. To be continued... ____________________________________________________________ Copyright ©2024�"2025 under United States Copyright Office, Library of Congress. All rights reserved. This literary work is protected by the U.S. copyright laws. Reproduction and distribution of the work without permission is prohibited. The offender will be traced and will face the full extent of the legal ramifications as stipulated by the law. Thank you for reading! ♡ ____________________________________________________________ © 2025 YoshAuthor's Note
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Added on June 15, 2024 Last Updated on April 4, 2025 Tags: #romance, #mentalhealth, #1960s, #action, #drama, #adventure, #charming, #enjoyable, #oldschoollovenewjersey, #lovelanguages, #fluff, #friendstolovers, #comedy, #original, #originalstory, #slowburn Author
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