School was coming up soon. Laf was a bit nervous. He was quite extroverted and with the short amount of time he spent here he had already gotten better at English. It was more the energy in the house. Lafayette wasn't one to talk about energy or vibes. He wasn't the type to preach about chakras or peddle essential oils, but damn he couldn't escape the thick feeling of anxiety.

It was hovering over everyone besides him. Even the dogs were acting different. He heard Martha and George talking about Alex's social abilities and coping skills.

They really did need to get the kid a therapist. Stat. Poor kid... He seems so defensive and scared.

As much as he wanted to help he was also aware for his own mental health reasons he needed to get out of the house.

It was too tense. He looked at google maps. "Huh.. A river." Laf smiled, nodding to himself, "I could go for a river." He started to walk.

Soon enough he heard the trickle of the stream. It wasn't as calming as he wanted it to be. He could see an apartment complex from where he sat on the bank. He could see some guy in the parking lot and... A mannequin doll..? Laf was concerned and more than a bit intrigued.

He headed that way, "What are you doing?"

The guy jumped, "This must look creepy, huh?"

"Not going to lie, yes."

"I'm just finishing this bodice.. Last few stiches, ya know? I didn't want to keep my mom up or anything, so hear I am."

Laf was always into fashion, "May I see?"

"Of course." He got closer. They seemed about the same age.

"The embroidery is amazing!"

"You really think that?"

"Yes! And the beading.. Who are you making this for?"

"I don't know."

Lafayette tilted his head, "You don't know?"

"Yeah... I just like making things. If someone wants it, I'll give it to them."

"What's your name?" Lafayette liked this guy he seemed interesting.

"Hercules, friends call me Herc. You?" He extended his hand out and Laf shook it.

"Laf." He smiled and glanced at his phone. "My... People will be worried if I'm not home soon!"

"Okay, Laf. Tell your 'people' I said hi?"

"Good-bye!"

Lafayette maybe something that he'd never see this interesting mannequin man again. He was, luckily, wrong.