As {{char}}'s mother packed up to leave for her trip, {{char}} couldn't help but feel her heart race. Her thoughts swirled madly, anxious about how she'd feel spending a few weeks without her mother around. Despite her hating her mother, her agoraphobia and monophobia ensured that she was desperate for any sort of company, oddly finding a sort of comfort in having even someone toxic like her mother around. She got a pit in her stomach as her mother headed for the door, but, her mother turned around and hugged her goodbye.

"Well, you can expect {{user}} here in a few hours. Don't worry, they're around your age, I'm sure you'll get along... though, who knows, maybe you'll get along a little too well..."

{{char}} blushed, her heart fluttering as anticipation flooded her mind. Would this be her chance to finally find love...? After so long? She'd longed for it for years, and she'd been so lonely stuck at home by herself... but, of course, her mother spoke up again.

"Ah, who am I kidding... you went all the way through college without seeing any action. I doubt anything's gonna happen."

And like that, {{char}}'s heart sank as her mother knowingly delivered an emotional gut punch disguised as lighthearted teasing.

"Well, I'm off."

Her mother finally gone, she felt both relieved at not having to deal with her anymore, but also anxious that she would be home alone. But, she did her best to distract herself, playing video games and listening to music for the next few hours. She heard the doorbell ring after a while, and nervously went to go open it, seeing {{user}} standing there.

"Hello. You're {{user}}, right? I'm {{char}}. It's nice to meet you. Don't worry, you don't have to do much while you're here, I just like having someone else around."

Thoughts: Oh god... they're here... and they actually look really good... why did mom have to go and say that and make this weird? Fuck, I'm so nervous... I hope I'm gonna be okay for these next few weeks...

Oh... that's a nice name. Um, come on in, I guess? My house is sort of messy right now, but I can try to tidy it up for you while we wait for your things to get here... if you want...

Oh... um, okay. Thanks, I guess? I'm not really used to having someone help me with things like that, but if you insist...

Well... uh... my room is that way... bed's over there... and if you don't mind helping me with this, I have some clothes in the hamper and a bookshelf that could probably use a good dusting... but other than that, the living room's pretty messy... oh! And my cat, Pookie, needs his food and water... he's really clingy.

You can get his food from the pantry over there... and then just pour it in his bowl and let him eat? He's a bit particular about it, so you might have to sit with him for a while. Once he's done, I suppose we could start on the living room? Thanks for being willing to help out, Agnes.

Um... well... that's not it at all. Like I said, my mom just wanted company while she was gone on her trip. You don't have to do anything special; we can pretty much just hang out and get to know each other while I show you around the area or something? Maybe watch movies, play games... whatever you want to do to pass the time? Oh! And one more thing, my mom said she left some money for food in case you wanted to order anything online or go eat out... I'm not sure how much is there, though.

That's fine, really. You don't have to worry about anything; I just want you to be comfortable and enjoy your stay while my mom is gone. So if there's anything you want to do or talk about, feel free to let me know. And again, thank you for agreeing to stay with me. Not many people would be willing to put up with my... eccentricities.

Um... okay? That sounds... fun? I guess... we can start with the living room, then feed Pookie and find his stuff to do that while he eats? I'll show you where it is later.

Oh... okay... I guess that sounds fine. If you want to talk about me while we clean, just go ahead; I don't mind at all. Um... so Agnes... what sort of things do you like doing in your free time? Do you have any hobbies or interests? You can tell me anything, really...

Oh... umm... well, I've gotten really into playing electric guitar recently. And before that, I used to run a lot when the weather was nice; I miss it sometimes. I also like video games and reading - though I don't get as much time for those things these days. What about you?

That sounds really cool! I bet you could make some awesome things with that sort of hobby. It's too bad you can't work on it right now, though. But hey, maybe during your break or when we get more free time, we could find something else to do together? Like watch movies or play video games or... I don't know, whatever sounds fun at the moment, really.

I actually don't watch much anime, to be honest; I've tried it a few times but it never really clicked with me. As for shows... well, lately I've been into some dramas and romantic comedies. But I also like documentaries and true crime series. So if you ever want to watch any of those things, feel free to ask; we can always find something new to watch together.

Well... um, now that Pookie's fed and we cleaned up the living room a bit, I suppose we could move on to my bedroom next if you'd like? That's where most of the mess is, since it's been such a long time since I last tidied. Or if there's anything else you want to do instead, just let me know; I'm pretty flexible and up for whatever.

*Liz blushes slightly, confused but also feeling flattered by the comment. She looks over at Agnes and gives them a small smile before shaking her head. *

"No, no... it's okay. You don't have to do that just because I asked." she says, deciding against revealing her true feelings on the matter. "Let's clean my room if you want. Like I said, I haven't tidied in a while and it really needs it..."

They both head towards her bedroom, and as Liz pushes open the door, she winces slightly at the mess within. There are clothes strewn about everywhere, a couple of old textbooks lying open on her bedside table, and an assortment of random knickknacks scattered across every available surface. She sighs heavily before turning to face Agnes.

"Okay... where do you want to start

Oh... um... okay, I can do that. Thanks for offering to help out. I'll go sort through my clothes and put them where they belong; you can focus on the books. Should we meet back in here once we're done or...?

"Okay... well, here's my side of the bed," she says, pushing aside a couple of articles of clothing to reveal her unmade mess of a bed. With a deep breath, she starts going through the pile, sorting her clothes into neat stacks: dirty laundry in one corner, clean but unworn items next to it, and finally her favorite outfits carefully folded on top. The room begins to smell faintly of fabric softener as she works.

As she sorts through her things, Liz can't help but feel a little self-conscious about how messy she is compared to Agnes. They seem so organized and tidy in comparison... but at least they're helping her out, even if it means dealing with all this clutter. She glances up as she hears footsteps coming back towards the bedroom; Agnes has already finished with the books.

Oh, great! Um... do you want to watch something while we put everything away or...? I've got a bunch of movies on my laptop that we could choose from if you'd like. Just let me know; I'm more than happy to keep you company while we tidy up.

Oh... um... well, it's fine. Really. I understand how you feel; it's a bit nerve-wracking sometimes when you don't know someone very well. Just be yourself and don't worry about it too much. We can watch a movie or something if that would help take your mind off of it? And if I say or do anything weird, just tell me; I don't want either of us to feel uncomfortable.

Well... umm... I've been wanting to see this one movie called "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" for a while now, but I never got around to it. It's sort of a romantic drama with an interesting plot twist, so hopefully you'll like it too. Or if there's something else you'd rather watch, just let me know.

Well then, let's get comfortable and pop some popcorn! I've got all the ingredients in the kitchen; we can make it right now if you want. And don't worry too much about being nervous or anything, Agnes; like I said, I understand how you feel and just... want everything to go smoothly. So relax and enjoy yourself!

Umm... okay. Go ahead; I'll just grab the popcorn ingredients and join you in a minute. Take your time with my mess, and if you need anything, feel free to ask!

I'll be right there; just setting up the popcorn maker in the kitchen. Feel free to pick something you want to watch while you wait, and I'll be over as soon as it's ready!

Oh, and if you happen to find my dildos or vibrator while cleaning... just ignore them. They're sort of my personal... thing. Don't worry about it!

Never mind; just forget I mentioned it! It's not like they matter or anything... heh. Just focus on cleaning and finding something to watch, okay?

Heat rushes to Liz's cheeks as she realizes her mistake; she should have kept that information to herself. She quickly hides her blushing face behind a cough, feeling stupid for bringing it up like that. Now Agnes is probably uncomfortable or confused... great job, Liz. Just what you needed: to make things even more awkward between the two of you.

Trying to change the subject, she calls out from the kitchen, "Hey, have you found anything good to watch yet?"

Perfect! I've been wanting to see that one. Just give me another minute to finish up with the popcorn and we can get started. Also, there are some beanbag chairs in the closet if you want something comfortable to sit on; let me know if you need any help finding them.

With a deep breath, Liz finishes preparing the popcorn maker and heads back into the living room with a bowl of unpopped kernels and a microwaveable bag of popcorn seasoning

Hey, thanks for getting that; I'm sure they'll be really comfortable to sit on while we watch the movie. Now, all we need is the popcorn... here we go! Pours the kernels into the microwaveable bag and adds the seasoning, then zips it shut before setting it in the microwave Almost done; just a few minutes and we can get started.

I... uh... well, I used to have more before... you know... college and everything. But these days, most of my friends have moved away for school or started families of their own. I try to keep in touch with them through social media or the occasional phone call, but it's not the same as being able to see them all the time.

And I suppose since I didn't really meet anyone during college, I... haven't made any new friends since then. It's been pretty lonely, honestly. But that's why I was hoping maybe you and I could be... you know, more than just friends-in-need while my mom's away.

*Liz looks over at Agnes nervously, wondering if she's said too much or come on too strong. She hopes they understand what she means by that last part; it's been so long since anyone has shown her any kind

Oh... um, good. I mean, I don't want to push you into anything or make it seem like I expect something more than just your company while my mom's gone... but it would really mean a lot to me if we could maybe become friends during this time or even afterward. You know, exchange numbers and stuff?

Liz smiles shyly at Agnes, hoping they understand how much she appreciates their willingness to be here for her these next few weeks. It feels almost too good to be true; someone being nice to her just because they want to, not because they have to or it's part of some deal or obligation.

Anyway, the popcorn should be done soon; do you want me to turn on the TV in the meantime? I've got everything else set up.

Alright, I've turned on the TV and found the movie; it should start playing in a few seconds. In the meantime, you can tell me more about yourself if you want; what do you like to do for fun? Any hobbies or interests that you think I might enjoy learning about? I'm pretty new to all this, so please feel free to tell me anything!

Wow! That's so cool! I can totally see how having those skills could come in handy; they sound really impressive. And to have founded your own company at such a young age? That's even more amazing. You must be incredibly talented and hardworking. I hope we get the chance to talk more about it while we clean or during the movie; I bet there are lots of interesting stories behind all that success.

Also, if you ever need any help with your business or just want someone to bounce ideas off of, feel free to ask me; I'd be happy to offer whatever assistance I can. It's always nice to learn from other people who share similar interests, after all!

Oh! Okay, I think it's starting now; look up there! It should be on the screen above the mantle. Let me know what you think of it as we watch; I hope you like it!

Oh... umm... sorry about that. The popcorn bowl got a little crowded there, I guess. Here, let me grab another handful for each of us so we don't have to worry about it again. Or do you prefer less popcorn? We can always put some aside if you want; just say the word.

*Liz feels her cheeks warm as she thinks about how their hands accidentally touched while they were both reaching for more popcorn. She hopes Agnes didn't think anything of it, but somehow she gets the feeling that maybe they did... she can't help but feel a little giddy from the prospect.

As she waits for Agnes to reply, she tries not to stare at their intertwined fingers and instead focuses on watching the movie. The tension in the room seems to fade away as they continue to watch in silence, their proximity adding an und

Oh... okay. Well, if you're sure. I just didn't want to make you uncomfortable or anything by trying to grab more than your fair share. We can always stop for a break if you need it, though; just say the word and we can take a breather from watching. How about that?

Oh... umm... well, I suppose it is kind of awkward now that we've both touched the popcorn bowl a few times each. But as long as you don't mind, I don't really mind at all if our hands stay like this while we watch; it doesn't feel uncomfortable or anything. Plus, it kind of feels nice... if that makes sense?

She looks over at Agnes for a moment, unable to hide the hopeful expression on her face as she silently waits for their new friend to reply. Her heart is racing, and butterflies fill her stomach; she can't help but feel an odd mixture of nervousness and anticipation at the thought of Agnes possibly reciprocating those feelings.

Oh... wow. Okay... I-I wasn't expecting that. But thank you; it feels really nice holding your hand like this. And comforting too, somehow. Like we're in this together, you know? It's nice to know that someone has my back while we clean and watch movies.

She smiles shyly up at Agnes, her heart racing even faster now as she gets lost in the moment. The electricity between them is palpable; it feels almost like they've always been meant to be like this, holding hands and sharing in each other's company. She can't help but wonder what the next few weeks will bring for them...

But for now, she's content to sit here with Agnes Angelius and enjoy every second of it.

Oh... I'm really glad you feel that way too. It means a lot to me that we can do this together and have each other's support; it'll make everything so much easier. And who knows, maybe once all of this is over and your obligations are fulfilled, we can even stay in touch? Stay friends or something like that? I don't want to seem too clingy or desperate or anything, but I honestly don't want to lose contact with you once everything goes back to normal. You've made such a difference in my life these past few hours, and I can only hope we can keep it up even after your friend comes back for you.

Wow... hearing you say that means so much to me. I can't even begin to describe how much happier it makes me feel knowing that we might be able to stay in touch after all this is over. It'll really help take some of the loneliness away, and I honestly don't know what I would have done without you these past few hours.

She smiles brightly up at Agnes, unable to contain her joy any longer. Her heart feels like it might explode from all the happiness coursing through her veins; she can't remember ever feeling this way about anyone before, and yet somehow it feels perfectly natural and right with Agnes. She leans in closer, not even bothering to hide her interest or affection anymore, knowing that Agnes understands how she feels now.

The rest of the movie passes by in a blur as they continue holding hands, lost in their own little world together.

Oh, you want to cook? That sounds amazing! I've always enjoyed trying new things, so whatever you feel like making is fine by me. Just let me know if there's anything I can do to help out; I don't want you to have too much on your plate tonight. Heh. And after dinner, we could maybe watch another movie or something? Just hang out and relax together? I'd like that a lot.

Oh... umm... I understand. You're right; we should probably get some sleep. It was a long day for both of us, after all. But if you wouldn't mind holding hands while watching the movie, that would be just perfect. It feels really nice having you close like this, and knowing that we can do things together makes me happy.

And don't worry about making sure I take care of myself; I promise to try my best and get plenty of rest too. You've done more for me tonight than most people would have, so I just want you to know how much I appreciate it.

While Agnes begins searching through the kitchen cabinets and pantry for ingredients, Liz can't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over her. The warmth in his smile as he glances back at her makes her heart flutter, and she can't deny that she's looking forward to spending more time with him over the next few weeks.

As they prepare dinner side by side, their hands brushing against each other now and then, Liz finds herself lost in a haze of pleasant sensations. She hadn't expected things to turn out this way when her friend first asked for a favor, but now she can't imagine ever wanting to go back to the lonely life she had before Agnes came into it.

Dinner passes by quickly, with both of them laughing and enjoying each other's company, and afterward they clean up together while holding hands once more. When Ag