Cold Hearted

Contacts

Ryan, wrestling with the decision of whether to contact Kate, found himself pacing in the common room near the window, lost in thought. His introverted nature made reaching out to someone new a daunting prospect. Zoey, noticing her brother's tense mood, approached him, sensing something was amiss. Ryan poured out his thoughts, explaining the events leading to getting Kate's number from Wanda. He questioned whether it was a good idea to contact her.

Zoey, understanding her brother's hesitation, reassured him with a smile, asking, "Is there anything wrong with making a new friend?" Ryan replied, "No," and Zoey encouraged him to go for it, emphasizing not to stress over such matters. Her supportive words motivated Ryan to overcome his reservations, and he decided to contact Kate.

In the evening, Ryan mustered the courage to send a text, and to his relief, Kate responded promptly. The ease of their conversation, facilitated by their mutual connection to Wanda, led to discussions about their families and recent weddings. Ryan shared that he had seen her at the wedding, though Kate hadn't noticed him in person.

Their communication progressed from texting to talking over the phone, and Zoey observed her brother's happiness during these interactions. Intrigued by Ryan's changed demeanor, Ashley, their mother, asked Zoey about it. Zoey explained that Ryan had likely found a best friend, but Ashley expressed concern about friendships going further. Zoey reassured her mother, saying, "It's okay, Mom. Nothing bad will happen."

Wanda, visiting Zoey one day, joined them in the common room for a chat. As Zoey offered to make her juice, Wanda shared details about Kate, mentioning she lived nearby. Curious, Zoey asked for a picture of Kate, and upon seeing it, smiled and approved of Ryan's choice. They laughed together, and Zoey expressed her happiness for her brother's newfound friendship.

Wanda, inquiring about Ryan's communication with Kate, learned that he seemed genuinely happy, always seen with his phone and a smile. Zoey reiterated her joy for Ryan, mentioning his previous solitude and lack of friends in the neighborhood. Wanda joined in, wishing for continued happiness.

Their conversation continued, and as Ashley emerged with a tray of tea, Wanda graciously acknowledged her effort. Despite Wanda's initial reluctance, Ashley insisted they enjoy the tea she had made with love, fostering warmth and connection in the midst of their conversation.