𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐭-𝐈𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 ━ 𝐉𝐢𝐦 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐭

- 17 | breaking down in the walls -

Breaking down in the walls

The weeks had passed, and the tension that once hung heavily between Jim and Marceline had gradually dissipated. The office returned to its usual rhythm, filled with the familiar sounds of phones ringing, keyboards clacking, and the occasional banter between coworkers. But something had changed between Jim and Marceline—a new layer of subtle flirtation had emerged, weaving itself into their daily interactions.

Jim found himself gravitating toward Marceline more often. He would make a point to stop by her desk, offering her a smile or a quick joke, anything to see her laugh. And when she laughed, it wasn't the reserved, polite chuckle she gave to others—it was genuine, full of warmth. That laugh was becoming a highlight of Jim's day, and he couldn't help but notice how her presence brightened the office.

Marceline, for her part, welcomed Jim's attention, even if it made her heart race in a way she wasn't quite ready to admit. Their conversations were light and easy, sprinkled with playful teasing that seemed to come naturally to them both. But underneath the surface, Marceline was still careful, guarding herself against the growing feelings she knew she had for him. The more time they spent together, the harder it was to maintain the walls she had built around her heart.

It was a Friday afternoon when Jim found himself lingering by Marceline's desk again. The workweek was winding down, and the atmosphere in the office was relaxed. He watched as she finished up an email, her brow furrowed in concentration.

"Hey," Jim said casually, leaning against her desk. "Got any plans this weekend?"

Marceline looked up, meeting his gaze with a small smile. "Nothing too exciting. Probably just going to relax, maybe catch up on some reading." She paused, noticing the curious look on his face. "What about you?"

Jim shrugged, his expression easygoing. "Might hit up a bar with some friends, but nothing set in stone. Maybe I'll just stay in and watch some bad movies."

Marceline chuckled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Bad movies, huh? Sounds like a thrilling weekend."

"Hey, don't knock it until you've tried it," Jim replied, grinning. "Besides, there's something comforting about watching a movie so terrible that it actually becomes entertaining."

"True," Marceline agreed, leaning back in her chair. "Maybe I'll take your advice and find the worst movie I can this weekend. Any recommendations?"

Jim pretended to think for a moment, then snapped his fingers. "Got it! How about Troll 2? It's so bad, it's legendary."

Marceline laughed, shaking her head. "I'll add it to my list. But if I end up hating it, I'm blaming you."

Jim raised his hands in mock surrender. "Fair enough. I'll take the blame."

As their conversation wound down, Jim hesitated for a moment, then leaned in slightly, his tone more serious. "Hey, Marceline, I've been meaning to ask... are you doing okay? I know things were a little weird between us for a while, but if you ever want to talk about anything, I'm here."

Marceline felt her heart skip a beat at his concern. She could see the sincerity in his eyes, and for a moment, she was tempted to tell him everything. But she quickly pushed the thought aside, forcing herself to maintain her composure.

"Thanks, Jim," she said softly, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside. "I really appreciate that. I'm okay, though. Just had a lot on my mind lately."

Jim nodded, not wanting to push her but feeling that there was more she wasn't saying. "Well, the offer stands. Anytime you want to talk—or even just watch a terrible movie—I'm around."