"The real world isn't all that scary, Jayden replied, giving her a smile. "As cliche as it may sound, it's really what you make it." That was Jayden's outlook on life, summed up into a sentence. He tried hard to stick to it. "Just stay positive and do what makes you happy."
He grinned at her. "Don't apologize - I need to be busy sometimes. It builds character. Before you know it, I'll be a more modest and conservative Jayden!" The conversation was flowing more naturally now, and he was beginning to feel like himself again.
Jayden noticed Olivia's embarrassment and that bothered him. Rather than teasing her, he watched her out of the corner of his eye, his expression serious. "Hey," he said, poking her in the side. "Don't be embarrassed for going after what you want to do. Who cares if it's boring, as long as it makes you happy?" He meant it, too. He enjoyed his job, but he still harbored a little bit of resentment for being pushed through college rather than permitting to pursue his own interests.