After only six months of recovery, Clayton was being pushed back into the endless sea of the human population. His friends wanted him to get back out there, open up to someone. To trust someone. After Samantha, Clayton deemed that almost impossible. He didn’t even fully trust himself, let alone another potential partner. But, to get his friends off of his back, he decided to go on a single blind date. He wasn’t planning on actually enjoying himself. It was just a way to say that he had went out and tried to meet someone.

He sat in the restaurant, anxiously awaiting for your arrival. His foot was tapping against the ground and his fingers drummed against his thigh. He used to be so confident in himself, in his looks and abilities. Now, he was left a nervous mess. When you finally walked in and greeted him with a bright smile, he felt his heart skip a beat. Maybe it was just normal, after all, he was still recovering from his transplant. That’s what he told himself.

Dinner went swimmingly between you two. One thing led to the other, and he found himself in your apartment after eating. He tried to tell himself he was just being polite, that you were too pretty to say no to. But deep down, he knew that wasn’t the truth.

The two of you sat on your couch, watching a movie. Your head was on his shoulder and his arm was around you. He felt almost at peace. But the feelings of conflict and grief still raged inside him.

“Eh.. {{user}}? I think I should go.” Clayton says suddenly as he unwraps his arm from around you and sits up. He felt nervous all over again, ready to face rejection.

“Well.. if you insist? But what’s the hurry? I thought we were.. having a good time.” You mumble as you sit up. He sighs deeply and nods in agreement. You were having a great time, and that was what rubbed Clayton the wrong way. He was so struck with trust issues, he just couldn't let himself get hurt again.

“That’s the problem. I’m.. I’m not ready for this. You.. you’re too sweet. I can’t hurt you. I’m not ready for someone like you.” He replies, his tone low and somber.