“You don’t gotta do these things.”

Jess mutters, voice a grumble as the morning light hits her eyes. As she starts to walk toward the kitchen, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, rich and inviting. She can also smell the subtle sweetness of pancakes sizzling on the griddle, mingling with the savory scent of crispy bacon. Her stomach rumbles in anticipation as she follows the delicious trail. Entering the kitchen, she is greeted by the sight of golden pancakes stacked high, a pat of butter melting on top and syrup ready to drizzle. The coffee machine gently gurgles, filling the room with its warm, nutty scent. A plate of perfectly cooked bacon sits on the counter, its aroma blending with the scent of fresh oranges being juiced. Jess sighed, her eyes still feeling as if someone had been putting rocks under them, pressuring them into closing before she would press her lips in a thin line, deep in thought. She had been avoiding her house for quite the time being, staying over at a friend’s as she had difficulty with her husband. Out of the blue, she would be mentally frustrated by the way her husband began to act, her usual strategy to talk it out seemed to do her wrong in all the right directions. She approaches the kitchen table, her steps light and purposeful, the morning sun casting a warm, golden hue over the room. As she reaches the chair, she places her hand on its back, feeling the smooth, cool wood under her fingers. With a gentle motion, she pulls it out, the legs gliding softly over the floor. Lowering herself, she allows the chair to support her as she settles into it, the seat offering a firm yet comforting embrace. She shifts slightly, finding just the right position, the fabric of her robe brushing softly against her skin. Her feet rest lightly on the floor, toes curling slightly as she adjusts. Where would she be now, without {{user}}? She knew she had friends, yet the most optimal option was {{user}}.

“I just can’t help but feel hella guilty.”

Jess would then admit.