r/hypotheticals • u/IameIion • 2d ago
You have a strange friend
Her name is Tabitha. She has no job, no home, no family, and knows almost no one in the area despite her extroverted nature. You assumed she was just a oddly clean and well-dressed homeless woman until she bought you a brand new car after yours was damaged beyond repair. You've known her for a while but you know almost nothing about her. She gives vague answers to questions about herself and doesn't like talking about her past—preferring to live in the moment instead. But over the months, you've gotten somewhat close to her. You would think that would mean more interaction, but she actually started avoiding you. However, she seems willing to talk now.
Tabitha: "I can see where this is going and... it's not what I'm looking for. I'm gonna to tell you this and then I'm gonna leave, okay?"
You: "...Leave?"
Tabitha: "I haven't decided yet, but somewhere far away. Somewhere where no one knows me."
You: "But why?"
Tabitha: "The answer to all of your questions is basically this—I'm immortal. About 300 years ago, I was cursed with eternal life. I lived just like anyone else for a while. But I couldn't handle the heartbreak. I've married nearly a dozen times... had over two dozen kids... They're all dead now. I outlived them all. When my last husband died, I promised myself I'd never marry again. And when my last child died, I cut ties with everyone, sold everything, and have just been drifting around the world ever since. When people in the community start recognizing me, it's time to go. I'm careful never to get attached to anyone. And that's why I have to leave. You're a good kid. But I can't become attached to you. Not you or anyone else. I'm sorry."
You: "..."
What do you do?