“You and I are from two entirely different wolds. We will never know what the other has gone through. Good or bad. That is why friends come and go. You can never understand each other the ways you need.” I walked to the table, staring at the cluster of candles. “Right?” 

“You wanna be friends?” he smiled back at me. 

“You missed my point entirely.” I huffed, sitting down harshly. 

“No, I get it.” he quietly replied. “You don’t have too many friends, do you?” 

“Hah,” I rolled my eyes, catching Mars padding across the room, to his food bowl. “I consider Mars my friend, but just like I to Mrs. Delilah, it’s only for mutual benefit.” I shrugged. “Is that friendship?” 

“Well, friendship, at least to me, means you feel safe with this person. You care for each other. You'd hurt them for their wellbeing. You’d let them hurt you and understand why-” he paused. “Damn it, sorry-” he shook his head. “A friend is someone to be happy with, right?” 

He's been hurt. In a good way, it seems. I watched as he walked over to the table, carrying two plates. He then offered to get me a drink, which I gratefully agreed. We ate in silence; I kept staring at him, trying to figure him out.  

“Is... your meal good?” Chester met my gaze. 

“Ah-” He noticed me staring... “Yes. I like it.” I nodded. 

“Good.” he smiled warmly. “I’m glad I can make you happy.” 

“Hm.” I dropped my eyes. “It’s getting late,” I stood quickly, taking our dishes. 

“Ah! I'll help clean up!” he spoke cheerfully.  

“You should get back to your rich-person home before it gets too dark out, Chester.” my back was to him as I only placed the dishes in the sink.  

“Ah...” he trailed. “It’s raining pretty bad out there-” 

“You drove here.” I stated, facing him.  

“M-may I stay...? At least to clean up and all that.” he spoke slowly. 

“...Clean up then.” I walked off. “I must get my work done,” I started to my room. “Knock on my door once you're done, Chester.” 

“You got it!” he grinned. 

I unlocked my door with my key, walking in, swinging it closed. I took my shirt off slowly, stretching. I often worked out in the comfort of my home, once again, despising people. I mindlessly started my routine, finishing with as many push-ups as I could do.  

Hah, am I gonna beat my record? I felt sweat bleed from my skin, trailing down my shoulders. 25- gods I'm so exhausted! I sat on my knees, my chest heaving. Not quite my record, but still good. I smiled to myself, tightening the elastic that pulled my red hair back and out of my face. Say, I looked to the door, it opened a crack. How long has it been? Did Chester leave without saying goodbye?