The next morning, I headed over to the community center and asked my supervisor if I could switch my schedule to the afternoon. She consented to the adjustment, recognizing that more young adults and teens come in seeking counseling or needing an appointment during those hours. I find great fulfillment in working with the youth; many of them don't have an adult they can confide in without feeling judged or inadequate.

As I was scrolling through my emails and messages, I found myself lost in thought about the moment I shared my role at the community center with Allen. I've always prided myself on my ability to read people, and while he was friendly enough on the surface, there was an unsettling vibe to him that hinted at some stalker-like tendencies lurking beneath. It's funny how our instincts can pick up on things that aren't immediately obvious, isn't it?

Bryce called me just as I was snuggling into bed, drifting off to sleep. I decided to let it go to my voicemail, but I couldn't resist listening to his message. Thanks to my mom, he knew I was dealing with car troubles. He suggested I get an estimate for the repairs and let him know by tomorrow.

I felt a wave of relief wash over me; I could afford to sleep in a bit since I wasn't starting my caf� job until Wednesday. I set my alarm for 10 a.m., and since the community center did not need me until 2 p.m., I had some time to breathe.

I recalled that I already had two repair estimates from when my car broke down. I made a mental note to call those shops back to confirm that the prices were still good. After I followed up with the auto shops, I contacted Bryce and gave him the quotes I gathered.

To my surprise, he transferred the money to my bank account but added a little more than the estimated amount. He promised to come to see me soon, and we talked for a while before he had to get ready for work.

Feeling excited, I called Mom to share the good news and thanked her for talking to Bryce on my behalf. I also spoke with Dad, reassuring him that I'd pay them back, but now it looks like I need to add my brother to the list of people I owe!

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, I got ready for work. As I combed my hair, my mind was again focused on Allen, but I felt relieved now that my car would soon be repaired. I called the auto shop and arranged for them to pick it up as soon as they could. Of course, that meant I'd be spending a few days waiting at the bus stop to get to the coffee shop and then to the community center. Unless I find someone kind enough to offer me a ride.

The community center is a few blocks from my apartment complex, but I couldn't shake the tormenting feeling that Allen might be watching me. It loomed over my mind like a dark cloud. I felt very anxious about getting my car back.

I still contemplated telling my family about him in case things took a turn for the worse. I tried to push those paranoid thoughts out of my head and stay positive. It's like walking a tightrope between wanting to feel safe and being weighed down by worry.