Page 73 - LSFinalV6Covers

NICHOLAS BOOTHMAN
She thought about her Time Bandit Busting
Protocol. She was so careful about protecting her time
from digital distractions. But what about this? This
human distraction, this emotional drain?
She realized something. Energy Vampires were
real. They weren't supernatural creatures, but they
were just as dangerous. They preyed on your empathy,
your good nature, your willingness to listen. And they
left you feeling depleted and defeated.
Brenda finally paused for breath. "…and then, he
said… can you believe it?"
Billie took a deep breath. The 60-Second Stress
Buster. She needed it now.
She decided to try a new tactic. A radical approach.
"Brenda," she said, her voice firm but gentle. "I
hear what you're saying. And I'm sorry you're going
through a tough time. But I'm feeling really drained
right now, and I need to conserve my energy. Can we
talk about something else?"
Brenda stared at her, stunned. "What? What do
you mean?"
Billie held her gaze. "I mean, I'm happy to support
you. But I need to set some boundaries. I can't listen
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