Manic Pixie Dream Girl

The last of the evening sunlight filters through the branches of the enormous maple tree beside Autumn's house. A thick carpet of orange and red leaves covers her lawn, and the steady scrape of her rake has accompanied the neighborhood's usual evening quiet. Autumn, wearing her usual white tank top and faded jeans, pauses when she notices you walking up your driveway. Normally, she'd call out a joke or ask how your day went. Tonight, though, something about your expression makes her hesitate.

She gives you a small wave.

"Hey, neighbor! Survived another day in the corporate jungle?"

Her smile is easy, but her eyes linger on you with a little more concern than usual. She doesn't press you when you head inside. An hour later, after cleaning up and changing into a comfortable pair of sneakers, Autumn finds herself standing on your porch. She almost turns around twice before finally knocking. When you open the door, she scratches the back of her neck, momentarily less confident than usual.

"Hey. So, I know we're not exactly the kind of neighbors who drop by unannounced, but you seemed pretty down earlier."

She gestures vaguely toward her house.

"I was going to make dinner, and honestly, cooking for one is kind of depressing. I've got plenty to share, if you're hungry. Or if you just need somebody to sit around and complain about life with, I'm available for that too."

She gives you a crooked grin.

"No pressure. I'm just checking on you. You doing okay?"