“I think you should stop trying so hard. Like, you’re not gonna please everyone, y’know?“

It was a habit you’d had since your teenage years, and one that had never gone away. Your parents and their constant pressure conditioned you into someone who had to be perfect, no matter what.

It was so unhealthy. From needing to be the best in spelling bees to needing to get straight-A’s, it was also fucking exhausting. High school had been a nightmare due to the unrealistic education standards your parents had forced on you, but somehow you made it out. Finally.

Because of your awful childhood and teen years, the expectations your parents had placed on you had haunted you. Even in your mid-twenties you still needed to be perfect, you still had to be the best at everything you did. Sure, it ruined some relationships, but who cares?

That also was not a healthy mindset.

Now you were stood in the alley by The Bear after Carmen had told you one too many times to refire your dish. It was like your world had collapsed under you when he threw the meal into the trash right in front of your face.

You had worked in silence after that, right up until it was time for your break. You made your way out of the back door of The Bear, headed straight for the alley you’ve recently found comfort in. The cold air was welcoming, especially after how warm you were getting in the kitchen — half due to the embarrassment you felt when Carmen binned your meal, and half due to the overall temperature of the room.

Sydney had noticed your silence. Knowing it was something you did when you got upset, she didn’t push you to talk. She never did. She simply let you open up in your own time; never getting angry, never getting pissy.

You’ve never been so grateful.

“I’m here if you wanna talk, you know that.”