Bowen: I’m so stressed and upset right now. I don’t know what to do.
Steve: Hey, what’s wrong? You look totally out of it today.
Bowen: Me and Chloe broke up yesterday. We’ve been together for months, and I just can’t stop thinking about it. I can barely focus in class.
Steve: I’m sorry to hear that, man. Breakups can really hurt, and you don’t have to force yourself to be fine right away.
Bowen: Yeah, it just feels so sudden. I keep wondering if I could’ve done something better.
Steve: Don’t blame yourself like that. Relationships might not work out sometimes, and that’s not always anyone’s fault. You shouldn’t take all the pressure on you.
Bowen: But I still miss her. And it’s awkward—we’re in the same math class.
Steve: I get it. Maybe you could give it some space first? You don’t have to talk to her if that makes you uncomfortable.
Bowen: You’re right. I just feel so stuck and stressed these days.
Steve: We can hang out more after school this week—we could go to the arcade or grab snacks. It might take your mind off things.
Bowen: That would mean a lot. Thanks, Steve. I don’t know what I’d do without you.
Steve: Anytime, bro. You know I’ll always be here for you. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Bowen: Yeah. Let’s take it one day at a time, I guess.
Steve: That’s the spirit. C’mon, let’s go get a soda—you need to relax a little.