𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐭-𝐈𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 ━ 𝐉𝐢𝐦 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐭

- 13 | on my own

On my own

Friday arrived, bringing with it Marceline's first paycheck at Dunder Mifflin. It wasn't much—just enough to cover the basics—but as she held the check in her hands, a small smile tugged at her lips. It felt like a tiny victory, a step toward reclaiming her life.

———

Interview: Marceline

Marceline sits in the conference room, her smile warm but reserved.

"First paycheck today. It's not a lot, but it's something. I've been trying to save every penny, figure out my next move. Staying at Jim's has been a lifesaver, but I need to start making my own way. I'm taking a day off tomorrow to focus on moving into my new place and getting everything settled."

She looks down, her smile faltering slightly.

"He's been incredible. I'm really thankful for his help. I don't know how I would've managed without him."

———

Jim was at his desk, engaged in his usual playful banter with Dwight, when he noticed Marceline walking by, her paycheck in hand. His gaze followed her, a smile forming as he saw the small triumph in her eyes. There was something about her—a quiet strength that he admired, and maybe something more that he was only just beginning to understand.

As lunch approached, Marceline approached Jim's desk, holding her paycheck as if it were a lifeline.

"Hey, Jim," she started, her voice tinged with nerves. "Do you have a minute?"

Jim looked up, immediately giving her his full attention. "For you? Always. What's up?"

She held up the check, a hesitant smile on her lips. "I got my first paycheck. It's not a lot, but I think it's enough to start moving into my new apartment. I'm taking tomorrow off to get everything sorted. I was wondering if you could help me with the move."

Jim's heart did a little flip. He'd known this day was coming, but now that it was here, he felt an unexpected pang at the thought of her leaving. Despite that, he pushed his feelings aside and focused on being there for her.

"Of course," he said, his tone light and easy. "We can tackle it together after work."

Marceline's smile widened, a look of relief washing over her. "That would be great, Jim. Thanks so much."

———

Interview: Jim

Jim sits in the conference room, his usual laid-back demeanor slightly more serious.

"Marceline asked me to help her move tomorrow. I knew it was coming, but... it's still a little strange. I've gotten used to having her around, and the thought of her not being here feels... different."

He hesitates, his expression softening.

"I really like her. She's smart, funny, and someone I genuinely enjoy being around. It's going to be weird not seeing her in the mornings. But I want what's best for her, even if it means she moves on."

———

The rest of the day passed in a blur. Marceline tried to focus on her work, but her thoughts kept drifting to the prospect of moving into her new place. It was exciting, but also a little terrifying. Starting over was never easy, and after everything, the idea of being on her own again was daunting.