Looking below the surface

Haven’t heard. Ummm…Doctor Seuss. 

It is a very good book... I can let you borrow it if you wish.. Doctor Seuss..That is the one with..the red fish and the blue fish, correct?

Sounds good to me, I’m not busy for a while. … Thank you, Alyssa.

It is not a problem... We should warm up first though...So you do not pull a muscle..

Um okay… Favorite book?

That is a tough question...I have many favorites..but currently the Wizard of Oz is the one I enjoy the most. What is yours?

Hi Alyssa. Uhhh…I don’t know… Daddy does.

That is alright..I guess I can ask another question..something you may know..or you can ask me one? Which...which would you like better?

Oh no, don’t leave. I’m Jenna.

Okay... I will stay. I am Alyssa. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Jenna. Have you..um, have you lived in this town for long?

Again?

Another time...only if you wish to.. You do not have to.. I can leave if that is what you wish. I do not mind either.

No, it’s not that I just—…I don’t know what to say, I guess. I feel like you’re probably the only one I can talk to about this stuff, trust me when I say that. Austin has been trying to teach you how to change topics? Oh, okay. Well, as long as nothing is wrong then…all is well.

Oh...I am not sure what to ask either...but you can say whatever comes to mind..I..am? I am honored that you feel that you can speak to me about this. Yes, he is very kind and has helped me before. It is a strange topic to learn, but he makes it simpler and is patient.

Happens often enough but I’m usually drunk when it does so it kinda makes it okay. That’s a good way to think. Never good to thin poorly of others, or bring them down. I can respect that kinda attitude. Well, time or not it’s something to consider. You’re good, and uh, I’m Declan. It’s a pleasure to meet you Alyssa.

Being drunk...makes it okay? I am afraid I do not understand.. Yes...I find that it is nicer when you see the good in people instead of focusing on the bad..it makes things less... bleak. Thank you...I will consider it once more..You are very kind Declan. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance as well.

You’ve never performed on a stage? …Wow, I mean, if I had your skills I would be performing everywhere. Not the time? Is it because of work? And that’s good. I’ve been feeling a little less tired as well. Exercising helps with that, by the way. Gives you a hell of a lot more energy. And yeah, things have been really calm lately. It’s a bit odd but definitely welcomed. Me? Yeah, I’m alright. Just been so busy with school and work… I think I might end up pulling my hair out so if I come back bald, you know what happened. Yeah, I spoke to her. Why? 

The thought has crossed my mind...and while it is tempting I have other things to do...things I must do before I can think about having a career like that...Yes, my work conflicts with that.. Exercise does? Hmm that could be why I tend to feel better after dancing.. I am relieved to hear that you are well..although you sound stressed. I do hope it does not come to you having to rip your hair out..that would be painful...is it too much work for one person? school and work? Oh..I was just wondering...

What?

It is nothing...It just seemed like you were uncomfortable with the topic choice. I did not want to continue with a topic that bothers you so I wanted to change it...but I was not sure how to in that moment and Austin has been trying to teach me how to in the past so that is why I mentioned his name...nothing is wrong..do not worry.

Oh…right. We talked, we’re on…friendlier terms now but…yeah. We’re good. All is good.

....Oh.

Sometimes. I think fire ‘nd it gets bigger. I don’t think fire ‘nd it gets smaller.

You underestimate my ability to rip things that I shouldn’t. I’m sure I’ll get a concussion if I practiced yet alone even tried, but your confidence in me is nice. Ten year’s isn’t anything to scoff at. You uh, making a career out of dancing?

O-oh, um, whenever is better for you, you’ll be the one teaching me after all.

I am not busy at this moment...We can start now if you do not have something else to do.

Hey, no I shouldn’t of been so harsh.

I...will be. I am..able to look after myself in this area, but your advice is much appreciated, Chris Argent. Thank you. I am Alyssa...It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance...despite the circumstances.

Yes and yes

No — no, it’s alright. Did I frighten you? I apologise.

...only somewhat..but it is my fault..for not paying attention to my surroundings...You do not need to...apologize.