chapter 25:A Night of Unexpected Friendship

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Celebrating Iris's birthday, Axel orchestrated a considerate surprise with a breathtaking bouquet and a luxurious designer bag delivered to their condo. Yet, the thrill of the gesture swiftly faded as Axel dialed her number within moments of the gifts' arrival. Iris struggled to conceal her frustration beneath a veneer of gratitude.

Axel, Eagerly: "Hey Iris! Did the gifts make it to you? I hope they brought a smile."

Iris, Masking Disappointment: "Yeah, Axel. They're... nice."

Although the gifts were opulent, they seemed like placeholders for the deeper connection Iris yearned for. Axel's quick call left her desiring more than just material expressions. The spacious condo echoed with a sense of emptiness, accentuating the widening gap between them.

Bearing the burden of solitude, Iris decided to break free from the oppressive atmosphere. Grasping her keys, she ventured out to a nearby bar, yearning to discover comfort amidst the sea of unfamiliar faces.

Observant Bartender: "Rough day?"

Iris, Exhaling: "It's my birthday, and sometimes, gifts can't replace the company you truly long for."

As the night unfolded, Iris shared her frustrations with a compassionate bartender. The subdued lighting and distant conversations provided a backdrop to her solitary celebration.

Bartender, Pouring a Drink: "I see..."

Iris, Nodding: "Yeah, you could say that. It's my birthday, and it hasn't been what I expected."

Bartender, Sympathetic Smile: "Birthdays are supposed to be special. What happened?"

Iris, Sighing: "Got this grand bouquet and a designer bag from my boyfriend. Sounds great, right? But it felt like he was ticking off a checklist. Then, he calls me minutes later, and it just... felt off."

Bartender, Understanding: "Sometimes, the best-looking packages don't hold what we truly need."

Iris, Smiling Gratefully: "So here I am, seeking refuge in the company of strangers."

Bartender, Gesturing to the Bar: "Well, you've got a seat here. Sometimes, sharing with strangers can be surprisingly comforting."

Iris, Nodding: "Thank you. It's nice to have someone to talk to."

The subdued lighting and distant conversations provided a sense of anonymity, allowing her to be candid about her frustrations on this unexpected solitary celebration.

Empathetic Stranger: "Mind if I join you? You seem like you could use a friend."

Iris, Sniffling: "Sure, why not? It's been one of those nights."

Stranger: Issues?

Iris: Birthday...

Empathetic Stranger: "Birthdays are supposed to be joyful. What's on your mind?"

Iris, Opening Up: "It's complicated. Sometimes, you expect more than just material gestures."

In that bar, amid the clinking glasses and distant laughter, Iris found a moment of solace and contemplation, pondering what she genuinely desired from her relationship with Axel.

Iris, Wiping Away Tears: "Just feeling a bit lost, you know? Got these extravagant gifts, but it feels like a superficial substitute for what I wanted."

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