In Another Lifetime By Yosh Episode 21A Chapter by Yosh What more things happen to Marvin? 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 21: Jax's death strikes Marvin and his entire group into devastation. Marvin's narration: Line 1) Although I was in a dark place, I knew I had to keep going for the sake of those left around me. I had to be there for them the way they were there for me, no matter how hard life got. Line 2) But it seemed like, despite my efforts, grieving became a recurring thing for all of us. Line 3) Though I hadn't talked to my father in years, I attended his funeral when I was informed of his passing. Line 4) I didn't think I'd shed a tear, but I bawled like a baby, regretting the fact that I never got to say goodbye to him even though he was nothing but a jerk to me my entire life. Line 5) Perhaps if I had reached out, we could've patched things up between us, but I didn't do anything, and now I have no family left. Line 6) Then, before I knew it, my best friend and former brother-in-law, Todd, passed away. *Russell, Marvin, and Cady are all surrounding Todd's grave, grieving his loss in agony. Line 7) It felt like I was fighting this battle with life and constantly losing, no matter how many times I tried to get back up to finally win a round for once. *Around 19 years go by, and Marvin is bedridden in a hospital after having a heart attack. The day is May 21st, 2020. It's a Thursday evening. Marvin is 81 years old. With a nurse aiding him to the side as he lays in bed, through Marvin's hospital room door comes Russell and Cady, frantically approaching him in panic. Cady speaks nervously, with the delivery of her speech breathless from rushing to get to the hospital. Cady Line 8) We came as soon as we heard! Russell questions Marvin in confusion, with a look of concern etched all over his face. Russell Line 9) They said you had a heart attack! How could that have happened when you were up just fine literally a day ago?! The nurse hesitantly informs Russell and Cady about Marvin's condition, looking at them with sorrow filled in every crevice of their face. Nurse Line 10) I'm so sorry to break the terrible news, but Mr. Dicon is having severe heart failure. Cady and Russell look at the nurse in shock, going pale from the unexpected information. The nurse excuses themselves upsettingly. Nurse Line 11) Please excuse me. The nurse walks out, with Cady and Russell looking at Marvin in heartache. Cady questions Marvin in disbelief, her voice cracking from the gut feeling of bad news being confirmed. Cady Line 12) H-heart failure? Does that mean what I think it does? Cady gazes into Marvin's eyes in denial, with him gently nodding his head yes, using up all the energy left inside of him to give her an answer. Russell sits down on a chair nearby, rubbing his head in distress from the devastating confirmation. He speaks disconcertedly, with tears welling in his eyes. Russell Line 13) But you stopped smoking and drinking? You became fit... I don't understand how this could have happened. Marvin provides a rational response, speaking bluntly from his uncomprehension of his friends' shock. Marvin Line 14) Listen, you two. I'm 81. This kind of stuff happens at my age to all sorts of people. Did you all think I'm immortal or something? Old age got the best of me, and there's nothing I can do about it. Cady's jaw quivers in anguish, questioning Marvin apprehensively. Cady Line 15) Is there really no way to help you? If money's the issue�" Marvin cuts Cady off, speaking in a voice of acceptance. Marvin Line 16) Money won't do anything. Doc says my chances are slim to nothing. Seems my time has come. It is what it is. Cady bursts into tears, letting her emotions of despair take over. Russell holds her in his arms, letting his tears stream down his face as well from the heartbreaking news. Marvin's eyebrows twitch upsettingly from his friends' reactions, leading him to clench his jaw to suppress his tears, but his frail state takes over, making him break down as well. Russell and Cady lean into Marvin, with everyone embracing each other in for a consoling group hug. Some time passes as Russell and Cady continue staying by Marvin's side at the hospital. Cady questions Marvin gently, reaching for his hand as he lays in bed, with her and Russell sitting beside him. Cady Line 17) Is there anything we can do for you, Marv? Marvin thinks to himself, with a light bulb turning on in his mind, prompting him to answer Cady with enthusiasm. Marvin Line 18) Actually, yes. Would you two mind doing me a huge favor? Russell and Cady look into Marvin's eyes eagerly, nodding their heads welcomingly. Marvin speaks charismatically, hoping his friends are able to grant him his wish. Marvin Line 19) That storage room* filled with stuff for my son; please let him have access to it. The key is under my pillow. You two know what I'm talking about, right? *Refer back to episode 20, lines 47 and 50. Russell and Cady nod their heads confirmingly, knowing exactly what Marvin is talking about. Marvin speaks bittersweetly as he reminisces about his conversation with Todd. Marvin Line 20) I remember asking Todd* if it'd be okay for him to be in charge of giving my son access to his stuff if something were to happen to me, so now I'm asking you two. *Refer back to episode 20, line 51. He elaborates melancholically. Marvin Line 21) There are all kinds of presents there for him that I've made it my life's mission for him to receive one day, so it'd mean the world to me if he were to get it. It's about time anyway. It's been far too long. Who cares if I'm not allowed to do this, right? Marvin looks into his friends' eyes in desperation. Marvin Line 22) I know it'll be difficult to get in touch with him, but if you can, in any way, please do so. Russell reaches for Marvin's hand, holding it tightly with devotion as he speaks determinedly. Russell Line 23) Consider it done. Don't worry at all. We'll figure out a way like we always do. Cady nods her head assertively and agreeably, smiling at Marvin in a trustworthy manner. Marvin speaks in a tenderly appreciative voice, feeling immensely touched by his friends' dedication. Marvin Line 24) You two are the best. Thank you so much. At Cady's place, she and Russell look at each other contemplatively, knowing what daunting task lies ahead of them to accomplish in order to fulfill Marvin's wish. Russell Line 25) Seems like we have no other choice other than calling her, huh? Cady nods her head, feeling drained just by thinking about what they have to do, while Russell releases a heavy sigh of distress. Russell and Cady scour her place for an old phonebook, eventually finding one with Elouise's number on it. Cady hesitantly gives her a call, with the phone ringing and ringing until someone eventually answers. She speaks apprehensively, not looking forward to speaking to Elouise. Cady Line 26) Hello? Am I speaking to Elouise Dicon? It's Cady Wanyama. Remember me, by any chance...? A masculine voice on the other line of the phone responds. Marvin's Son Line 27) Sorry. Elouise is not here right now, so I'm taking a message for her. This is her son speaking. Your name isn't ringing any bells. If you don't mind me asking, how do you know my mother, Miss Wanyama? Cady's eyes widen in disbelief, with Russell glancing at her in pleasant surprise as they listen to the call on speaker, feeling lucky about their odds. Cady speaks instructively, with a huge sense of relief prominent in her voice. Cady Line 28) Thank goodness you're the one who answered. I actually called to speak to you. I know your father better, and he needs to see you STAT. Please don't tell your mother about anything I'm about to say... Cady informs Marvin's son about everything, with him getting all the deets about where Marvin is located. In a rush, he swiftly makes his way to the hospital where his father is, bursting through his hospital room frantically. On the bed, he sees his bedridden father, covering his mouth in shock from the conditions he's in. Marvin's eyes bulge in disbelief, unable to fathom how quickly Russell and Cady got down to business. Marvin's son slowly approaches his father, looking at him in shock as tears well in his eyes. He speaks in pleasant surprise, his voice filled with immense melancholy. Marvin's Son Line 29) Oh my God. I can't believe I'm actually seeing you right now. Marvin's son crouches to hug his dad, letting his tears get the best of him. Marvin hugs his son rigidly, smiling bittersweetly as tears of joy start to accumulate in his eyes. After they reconcile together and shed some tears, Marvin's son opens up about everything to his father, with various long hours going by as they catch up on everything. Marvin's son pulls up a picture of Teresa on his phone, showing his daughter to his father proudly. Marvin's Son Line 30) ... Here she is. Her name is Teresa. Can you believe she'll be turning 26 soon? Marvin squints at the picture intently, wanting to get a good look at Teresa. He smiles, speaking happily. Marvin Line 31) They grow up so fast. She's quite the beaut. She looks a lot like you, buddy. Marvin's son dejectedly places his phone back into his pocket, holding his father's hands affectionately and responding wistfully. Marvin's Son Line 32) She looks like you, Dad. Of course, she's beautiful. Marvin smiles at his son sentimentally. Marvin's son speaks gut-wrenchingly, looking into his father's eyes in treachery. Marvin's Son Line 33) Why... didn't you try to connect with me after all these years? Far too much time has gone by. I missed you so much. Marvin looks at his son in anguish, speaking yearnfully. Marvin Line 34) I missed you a lot, too, but your mother has a restraining order against me. I couldn't have connected with you even if I tried to. Who knows what would've happened if I made any attempts? It was far too much of a risk for me to take. I didn't want to put you in any sort of danger or uncomfortable situation. Marvin's son droops his head down in shame, speaking in deep betrayal. Marvin's Son Line 35) I had no idea about the restraining order... H-how could she do this to you? All my life, I've wanted nothing more than for you to be a part of it. I knew all those things people would say about you were lies. I didn't expect us to reunite like this. It's heartbreaking to know we only have such little amount of time left to be with each other. Marvin rubs his son's hands warmly, speaking apologetically, with his eyebrows furrowing in guilt. Marvin Line 36) I'm so sorry. I should've found a loophole somehow. Just know that not a day has gone by where you haven't been on my mind all these years. I love you more than words can describe, sweetheart. Marvin's son looks at his dad in sorrow, with more uncontrollable tears streaming down his face. Marvin reaches for his son's face, gently wiping his tears away. He speaks appreciatively. Marvin Line 37) What matters is that you're here now. I'm going to savor every moment we have together. You have no idea how proud I am of you. You've grown into such an amazing person, and I'm extremely honored to call you my son. Marvin's son releases a chuckle at the compliment despite his state of sadness. Marvin smiles at his son compassionately, with his laughter becoming a core memory for him. He speaks alluringly, wanting to captivate his son. Marvin Line 38) I can't make up for all the years that have been lost between us, but I've been making a time capsule for you for years that I want you to have. Marvin's son looks at him touchingly, speaking emotionally from the unexpected gesture. Marvin's Son Line 39) Wow. That's so considerate of you. Marvin elaborates in excitement, wanting to make his son feel thrilled. Marvin Line 40) Everything is locked away in a storage room just for you. The room is filled with all kinds of letters and presents I've saved up over the years. I made sure to save everything I couldn't give to you in the past for you to eventually have when my time would come. Marvin Line 41) Please take a look at everything. From Christmas and birthday presents to celebration gifts for huge milestones and even the hobbies your uncle told me you liked for a time,* you name it, I got you something. *Refer back to episode 20, lines 45 and 46. Marvin speaks playfully. Marvin Line 42) I'm pretty sure I even bought some champagne years ago when I heard you got engaged to your now wife. It's gotten even more vintage than before, so pop a bottle for your old man and let me know how it tastes. What do you say? Marvin's son melts at his father's heart-warming gesture, gently grabbing his hands that were caressing his face to give them a soft kiss. He speaks dedicatedly, smiling at his dad happily. Marvin's Son Line 43) Goodness! I love you! Do I have the best father in the world, or what? Thank you so much! Marvin and his son share a laugh, enjoying their last moments together. Marvin's narration: Line 44) When I was young and envisioned getting married and becoming a parent, I swore to myself that I wanted to be the father I couldn't have for my kids. Line 45) I wanted to hear my kids say they loved me and whatnot, and never in a million years did I think it would be said to me this way. Line 46) What did I ever do to deserve this fate? I wanted to be there for my son the way my father wasn't, yet I couldn't even do that. Line 47) My son... the adorable little boy who inherited my facial features and even part of my personality. How much I love you so dearly. Look how much you've grown! Line 48) I wish I could've shown you how much I loved you for much longer, my sweet boy. I wish I could've watched you grow into the incredible person you are. Line 49) I was supposed to be the one attending all of your school events, watching you search for me in the crowd with an expression of relief coming across your face when your eyes landed on mine. Line 50) I was supposed to be the one who tucked you into bed every night, planting a tender kiss on your forehead while giving you a bedtime story, watching you gently nod off to sleep ever so preciously. Line 51) I was the one who was supposed to fix any broken appliances and wow you into thinking that your father could do anything. Line 52) I was the one who was supposed to go all out when it came to making food, serving you the best of the best. Line 53) I was the one who was supposed to take you out to all sorts of outings, watching you explore the world in excitement, holding your hand the entire time. Line 54) I was the one who was supposed to tightly embrace you in my arms and wipe your tears whenever you'd be sad, telling you everything would be okay and smothering you in kisses whenever I'd get the chance to. Line 55) I was the one who was supposed to teach you how to drive, then buy you a cool car of some kind and watch the look on your face when you received it in joy. Line 56) I was the one who was supposed to break down in tears when you walked the stage, finally getting handed your diploma and degree. Line 57) I was the one who was supposed to get drunk at your wedding and give a heartfelt speech about how much I wish you and your wife nothing but the best. Line 58) I was the one who was supposed to hold your baby daughter and observe her tightly grab ahold of my finger on the day of her birth. Line 59) But... I wasn't there for any of it. The only thing I had to latch onto was the last bit of tender moments we shared together. Line 60) I made sure to look you in the eyes to burn every portion of your face into my memory. Line 61) I made sure to hold your precious hands, run my fingers through your thick golden brown hair, and attentively observe the cute little freckles that are perfectly placed on your face appreciatively. Line 62) And, in my last breath, the memory I got transported to was that giggle you released when we saw each other for the first time in 46 years.* *Refer back to the details after line 37 of this episode. Line 63) I wish I was there for more. I'm so sorry, my son. Getting struck with the news of his passing, Marvin's son unboxes every letter and present his father left for him in the storage room, bawling his eyes out, with his sobs echoing sounds of anguish coming from deep within his soul. Russell, Cady, and Marvin's son all throw roses on Marvin's casket as they lower him to the ground where he's being buried (next to Luna, Mama Millie, and his father's graves), quietly crying as they commemorate his life. Marvin's son's narration: Line 64) All my life, I've been looking for you, wondering why there was this emptiness in my heart, but deep down, knowing it was because you were the one who was supposed to fill it. Line 65) Now, I can only ever see you in my dreams. It's as if I get transported into another life where things work out between us. At least we're happy there, right? Though I wish we were able to be happy for longer in this one. Line 66) Sure, I was only four the last day I thought I'd ever see you, but I vividly remember how tightly you hugged me and the smell of your sandalwood cologne as I leaned into your chest, with your cartoonishly styled hair slightly tickling me as we embraced each other. Line 67) I'll admit that I was quite confused that day and deeply disconcerted by how much you were smothering me in kisses and crying so hard to the point where snot was coming out of your nose, but over the years, that memory only brought me more grief as I was hit with all kinds of realizations that eventually explained why you were so devastated. Line 68) As I got older, I noticed other people having fathers, but mine not being around, and would ask Mom countless amounts of times about what happened to you, only for her to scowl at my innocent inquisitions. Line 69) I truly connected the pieces together when I spotted her crying one day, with what looked to be a photo album cracked open on her lap, prompting her tears to flow. Line 70) I secretly looked through that photo album when she wasn't around, and that was when everything clicked for me.* *Marvin's son is referring to a family photo album where there are pictures of young Marvin in it, with his son in some photos (refer back to when Teresa mentioned this and how she was able to piece together that the man in these photos was her grandfather, Marvin Dicon, in episode 8, lines 73�"81, etc). Line 71) Things were never the same after that day, and Mom definitely figured that out from how cold I started acting towards her. There's a rift between us that I don't think will ever patch up. Line 72) After all these years, I still haven't found it in my heart to forgive her, and I don't think I ever will. Line 73) You were supposed to be in my life, and I was supposed to be in yours. Nothing will ever return all the years we lost together, and that makes me utterly furious. *Shot cuts to Elouise's visit to Marvin's grave, sobbing in regret as she places flowers on his tombstone. She speaks apologetically, feeling immense guilt wash over her. Elouise Line 74) I'm so sorry. *Shot cuts to the present day, with Cady and Russell finishing telling Marvin about himself. They look at Marvin emotionally after going down memory lane to inform him of every part of his life, which massively encompasses devastating memories. Russell speaks in a clarifying manner, releasing an upsetting sigh from his sadness for Marvin. Russell Line 75) I think we've told you everything... Cady questions Marvin in concern, seeking his authentic reassurance. Cady Line 76) Were we able to answer all of your questions?* *Refer back to episode 19, line 58. Marvin nods his head dejectedly, processing everything he's heard in sorrowful disbelief. Cady reaches for Marvin's hand, speaking sympathetically as she gazes into his eyes sincerely. Cady Line 77) We're so sorry about everything. It must be difficult to take all of this in. Russell rubs Marvin's back consolingly, speaking caringly. Russell Line 78) It's a lot to become aware of in such a short amount of time. Just know, it's why we missed you so much, Marvin. You only passed away around three years ago. The wound is still fresh, and it's so surreal to be here with you right now. Cady speaks devotedly, her voice prominent with growls of passion. Cady Line 79) Things will most definitely be better this time around. We'll make sure of it. You deserve nothing but the best. Russell leans his head on Marvin's shoulder, speaking in a manner of regret. Russell Line 80) I'm sorry for not looking out for you as much as I should've. Cady speaks mutually, with an expression of guilt engulfing her face in heartache. Cady Line 81) I'm sorry, too. I should've done more and been a better friend. Marvin's eyebrows slant from his friends' tragic responses. He speaks reassuringly, wanting to help his friends overcome their faults and bear less guilt for uncontrollable outcomes. Marvin Line 82) Please don't blame yourselves. Everyone did the best they could. What happened to me is none of your faults. You two were there for me all the way up until the point where I drew my last ever breath, even letting me reunite with my son after so long. That means a lot. Russell and Cady lean in to embrace Marvin affectionately for a group hug. Marvin holds his dear friends in his arms lovingly, feeling their support surge through him. Russell speaks determinedly. Russell Line 83) Your existence here means we're able to start fresh. We're going to do everything in our power for you to live the life you were supposed to, Marvin. As Cady said, you deserve nothing but the best. Cady speaks in an uplifting voice, smiling at Marvin happily. Cady Line 84) As soon as you accomplish what you were sent here to do, you'll be sent back to live your life the way you were meant to. Words can't describe how happy I am that you've been given this incredible opportunity, Marvin! Russell speaks in a tone of relief. Russell Line 85) All the adversity you went through will be erased and filled with happiness. I can't think of anyone more worthy of that other than you, Marvin. Cady speaks in a focused manner. Cady Line 86) Shifting gears, now that you're all caught up, your friend's theory regarding your unfulfilled duty, being that you were supposed to get with the right person, is most definitely the reason why you time-traveled.* *Cady is referring to Calista's conclusion (refer back to episode 13, lines 1 and 2, etc). Cady speaks in excitement. Cady Line 87) Let "Operation Make Marvin Fall in Love" commence! Let yourself have some fun! This'll be a blast! Russell matches Cady's energy, speaking charismatically. Russell Line 88) You just have to go on a bunch of dates and find the right person for you. I'm with Cady. Enjoy the journey! Marvin speaks apprehensively, feeling distressed. Marvin Line 89) Thing is, I did that before. When my father forced me to go on all sorts of blind dates,* my hopes were crushed after each date because I didn't feel connected to any of the people I was made to go out with. *Refer back to episode 19, lines 79 and 80. Marvin speaks hopelessly, not feeling faithful about the tasks that lie ahead of him to fulfill in the future. Marvin Line 90) Who's to say the same won't happen now? It's even worse than before since I have so much more pressure weighing on me. Yes, I have all the time in the world to find the one, but knowing that it's the only thing that can send me back makes me feel hopeless. Just how much longer will it take for this to be over? I want nothing more than to go home. Marvin speaks in a procrastinative manner, his doubt heavily prominent in his voice and slouchy body language. Marvin Line 91) It doesn't help that I have even more restrictions tying me down. I talked with Calista about how I'm not going to pursue someone normally because if I were to, then I'd have to leave this timeline once my duty has been fulfilled, which would put my partner's heart in jeopardy* when mine is already enough of a hassle to deal with. *Refer back to episode 13, lines 9�"17, etc. Marvin speaks sternly, unable to be swayed about his stance. Marvin Line 92) I don't want to fall in love with someone who will feel mutual and then have to leave them to live my life in another timeline. Because of that, Calista proposed I date someone who wants to be in a "no strings attached relationship" and kindle an unrequited love for them, then be sent back home without having them feel the heartbreak of losing a loved one, even though everything will be reversed anyway.* *Refer back to episode 13, lines 29�"38, etc. Marvin speaks confusingly, expressing his feelings of unsettlement. Marvin Line 93) It already sucks that I can't tell this potential person about the fact that I don't belong in 2023, and the other things on top of that just make it sound impossible for me to find them. Who would willingly get into a relationship with someone and allow them to develop feelings but not consider pursuing it seriously? Marvin speaks in a manner of distress, feeling overwhelmed about all the things he has to consider. Marvin Line 94) Putting myself in their shoes, if someone hypothetically pursues me the way I intend to, I wouldn't be able to resist developing feelings for them. I just can't fathom someone being in a relationship where they allow someone to develop feelings for them and be romantic with them but not feel the same way about that person. Are those people robots or something? Marvin speaks disapprovingly, reluctant about delving into such a case after thinking through it exhaustively. Marvin Line 95) To be honest, even if those people do exist, they seem way out of my league. Why would I fall for someone who's simply using me to be romantic with them but, on the other hand, isn't developing any real feelings? For some, that's perfect, but I can't say the same. Cady chimes in, speaking pragmatically to help Marvin face reality. Cady Line 96) It's definitely not our thing, but there are certainly people out there that operate that way. They seem to be your only hope if you'd like to pursue a relationship where minimal feelings are hurt, with the exception of yours. Cady speaks suggestingly, giving Marvin more choices to think through to help him feel less bound to his restrictions. Cady Line 97) But regardless of what kind of person you choose, everything will be reversed. Why don't you find someone who's in your league and is able to develop real feelings for you as well? I'm sure if you were to explain your boundaries about eventually having to call things off, they'd respect it if they liked you enough. There are also people like that. Cady speaks instructively, making Marvin feel less lost about his next course of action. Cady Line 98) Sure, they'd go through the heartache, but they knew what they were signing up for before getting into a relationship with you. All in all, what you need to seek is a temporary relationship, Marvin. Make sure to clearly communicate your situation and find someone who's on board. Cady speaks encouragingly, helping Marvin gain some courage when it comes to going about his tasks. Cady Line 99) We can sit here and think through whatever kinds of people there are in this world that could suit you, but we won't know what'll work until you test things out and find something that's best. Cady speaks understandingly, wanting to dissipate Marvin's unease. Cady Line 100) I know you have doubts and are afraid you'll never find that person, but I assure you that you wouldn't have been sent to accomplish this task if the universe didn't have a plan for you. Trust me when I say that you'll find them because why would any of this have happened in the first place if not primarily set with your best interests in mind? Russell chimes in, patting Cady's shoulder agreeably while reassuring Marvin to the best of his abilities. Russell Line 101) Exactly, Cady. In addition, I'm guessing Ms. Thakur probably brushed up with you about this, but based on your standards and what you seek, you could set up a dating profile and see who matches you.* *Refer back to episode 13, line 33. Russell speaks in a detail-oriented manner, emphasizing important factors for Marvin to be aware of. Russell Line 102) I know it's not ideal because you'd much rather bump into that special someone and have your epic love unfold the way they do in the movies, but given our circumstances, it's the only way we'll be able to find that person with them being fully aware of what they're signing up for. Marvin questions Russell skeptically, feeling doubtful about his luck. Marvin Line 103) And you're certain I'll get matches? Russell elaborates passionately, feeling offended by Marvin's inquisition from his obliviousness. Russell Line 104) Of course! You're handsome and have a great personality! You're having a difficult time understanding this because your mind's still wired in an old-fashioned manner, but sooner or later, you'll realize that you've been underestimating yourself this entire time. Have some confidence in yourself! Russell speaks with certainty, wanting to motivate and inspire Marvin to give things a shot. Russell Line 105) Nowadays, there are all kinds of relationships people can get into, and others who seek all kinds of things just like you. You should be able to find someone in no time. Just keep your head up and muster up some courage. Russell observes Marvin, noticing how uncertain he seems about their plans. He speaks in a heartfelt manner, wanting to put him at ease from how much he's already been overwhelmed with. Russell Line 106) You've heard a lot today. Give yourself some time to absorb everything, and then give it a shot when you're ready. There's no rush. I know you miss home, but getting things over with quickly will only set you back further. You need to be genuine, which inevitably requires patience. Cady speaks consolingly, reaching for Marvin's hand to caress it with solace. Cady Line 107) It's totally okay for you to take your time. We're here for you when you need a shoulder to lean on or when you need someone to lend you an ear. We may be old, but we're still your same friends. Marvin continues looking hopeless, releasing a sigh of distress to express his anxiousness. Marvin Line 108) Thank you for that... but I don't think I'll ever be ready, you two. I wasn't ready before, and I can't fathom things being any different now. It's all just so daunting and grueling. I'm sorry for being so gloomy. Russell pats Marvin's shoulder, speaking sympathetically as he sentimentally gazes into his eyes. Russell Line 109) I can't imagine how much everything must be weighing on you. Let yourself feel your emotions. I'm glad that you're telling us about them. Pat yourself on the back for that. Cady pats Marvin's shoulder as well, speaking apologetically. Cady Line 110) I wish I could offer better advice, especially since I should be old and wise, but I really don't know what to say about your situation, Marvin. I'm just so sorry about it. Marvin speaks reassuringly, reaching for Cady's hand. Marvin Line 111) Don't worry. I told you not to blame yourself.* Plus, the two of you have given me great advice. I just really need time to process everything and then trace my next steps. I'm the one who should be sorry for making it seem like I want you guys to figure everything out for me. *Refer back to line 82 of this episode. Marvin speaks consolingly, wanting to let his friends feel proud of themselves for their helpfulness. Marvin Line 112) You two are right. I shouldn't rush things since we know no good came out of that. I'll take my time to come to terms with how my life unfolded, and I'm sure I'll make up my mind about my dating approach and whatnot one way or another. I may be uncertain now, but as you said, Cady, we can't sit and ponder forever.* I'm the one who has to make attempts. It's gonna be a bunch of trial and error. *Refer back to line 99 of this episode. Russell speaks cheerfully, wanting to motivate Marvin further. Russell Line 113) That sounds like a great start! Feel free to reach out to us anytime you need us. We're always here for you. Marvin smiles at his friends appreciatively. Cady matches Russell's energy, speaking reassuringly. Cady Line 114) Perhaps some more time will even help us think of some more ways to help you. Either way, keep in touch. Let us know how you feel about anything. Marvin speaks conclusively, with his gratitude radiant in his voice. Marvin Line 115) Sounds good. I can't thank you two enough for your efforts. Marvin hugs Cady goodbye, with Russell driving him to Calista and Talulla's place for the day. As Russell drives Marvin home, he observes how dark it's gotten outside, putting time into perspective on how long he's been talking with Russell and Cady. When they arrive, before Marvin steps out, Russell speaks affectionately, wishing him all the best. Russell Line 116) I really care about you, Marvin. I sincerely wish you nothing but the best and know everything will unfold the way it should for you. Know that I love you with all my heart. Marvin speaks appreciatively, conveying messages of compassion. Marvin Line 117) That means a lot, Russ. Thank you for being there for me. Have a good night, and take care of yourself. Russell and Marvin hug each other and part ways, with Russell driving off when he sees Calista open the door to her place to let Marvin in. Calista welcomes Marvin in excitement. Calista Line 118) Hey, Marvin. You're just in time. Marvin looks at Calista in confusion, wondering what she's talking about. Marvin Line 119) Just in time for dinner? Calista speaks enthusiastically, giving Marvin a smug look of mischievousness. Calista Line 120) Come and see for yourself. Follow me. As Calista leads the way, Talulla surprises Marvin with her, showcasing their gift in a roomy area they have set up for Marvin in their apartment. They announce their gift to him cheerfully. Talulla Line 121) We got you a bed with all its necessities and everything! Marvin's eyes widen in pleasant surprise, responding in taken-aback delight. Marvin Line 122) Oh my! You guys shouldn't have! Talulla explains stubbornly. Talulla Line 123) What do you mean? This is completely necessary. Calista speaks at ease. Calista Line 124) Now you can sleep in peace. No more bumpy couch for you. Marvin looks at the girls touchingly. Line 125) Marvin's inner thoughts: Calista did mention planning to buy a bed earlier.* It's so nice of them to do something like this for me. *Refer back to episode 18, lines 100�"104. Line 126) Marvin's inner thoughts: Things are tough but look at all the support I have around me. It's beaming in abundance. Line 127) Marvin's inner thoughts: Everything is going to be just fine. Marvin speaks gratefully, with his eyebrows slanting sentimentally. Marvin Line 128) Thank you both very much for the bed! Talulla replies in a trustworthy manner. Talulla Line 129) You know we got your back! Calista responds happily. Calista Line 130) Anyone would do the same thing if they were us, but you're still very welcome. Talulla speaks compassionately, looking out for everyone. Talulla Line 131) Anyhow, let's eat dinner, you guys. It's gonna get cold. 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
|
Stats
44 Views
Added on June 17, 2024 Last Updated on April 27, 2025 Tags: #romance, #mentalhealth, #1960s, #action, #drama, #adventure, #charming, #enjoyable, #oldschoollovenewjersey, #lovelanguages, #fluff, #friendstolovers, #comedy, #original, #originalstory, #slowburn Author
|
prev chapter
Share This
Email
Facebook
Twitter
Read Request
My Library
Subscribe
Flag Writing