She Brushes It Off

Hilda just laughed when you shared your problems.

"Oh John, it doesn't sound to me like there's anything worth worrying over. You got rid of some grungy old clothes? Good. Looking nice is an important first step to being seen as- and seeing yourself as- a respectable member of society." She sees your skeptical look. "I'll make a note and next time I come by I'll bring some suitable underwear, all right?"

"Well, okay, but I've been sitting weird-"

"You're probably just bored. I'll bring you a hot new playlist by some up-and-comers and a couple of workout videos. You're going to go nuts by yourself otherwise. Alright?"

You looked down and muttered assent.

Three days later she gave you some new spandex-y underwear, awkward fitting and clinging. But the music she brought was really good, you could and did listen for hours. The Natural Movements workout videos started to really tone your body, but you weren't putting on any real muscle. A week later, after you asked, Hilda added vitamin smoothies to your diet.

All in all, things were doing alright, until something happened-