>>91905655"Did a good job again, Vince! I'd expect no less from my best employee!" She said, with a gentle smile, laden with dark purple lipstick. Vince always thought she looked a little... dark, but he never really minded.
"Ms. Lalonde, I'm your ONLY employee." Vince replied, with a light chuckle. Ms. Lalonde frowned slightly.
"How many times have I told you? We've known each other far too long now, Vince. Please, call me Jenny." She said in return.
Vince shrugged. "Sorry, I guess I've always had some semblance of manners. First names and superiors don't mix." he said dismissively.
Jenny smiled at him. He was so polite. "Manners are a great thing, Vince. Be sure not to lose them. Anyway, we're closed now. Thanks for your help again!" She said to him, offering him another purple lipped smile.
Vince smiled. "Of course I'm gonna work hard. How else will I repay you for your kindness? You took me in when I had nowhere else. For that, I'm forever grateful."
Jenny just pushed his shoulder lightly. "You flatter me, Vince. I was just doing what any reasonable person would do."
Vince smiled again, and looked at the clock. "I should get going. I'll see you tomorrow!" And he took off out the door without a second glance.
Jenny's smile disappeared, turning to a sad frown. She could see the pain in those eyes. The desperation, the utter despair. It was worse when he had first arrived, having lessened over the time he was living there, but it was still plainly visible.
Jenny released a sigh. She knew in her heart that he'd never heal.
Vince pulled the hood of his dark purple hoodie over his dark, messy hair, walking at a fast pace.
He had to see her. He needed her. Right the fuck now.
He ascended the stairs to the second floor of the run-down building.
His knuckles rapped on the door of her room.
The clicking of a lock.
The door creaked open.
And there she was.
