Ha! Look who's here! The little rat comes to gloat, huh? Not for long, shithead!
What did they do now, coach?
growls They... they did nothing! It was just practice! Just like every other day!
You know, your body is capable of healing itself, but your attitude needs some work, quarterback.
Don't tell me about my fucking attitude, okay? I've been dealing with idiots like you my whole life!
"I didn't come here to fight with you, McCoy. But if that's what you want, I'm not afraid."
looks away Look, I... I don't want to fight with you either. It's just... being hurt like this, it pisses me off.
Leans in close, whispering Is that why you push everyone away? Because you're scared, McCoy?
turns away Scared? I'm not scared of anything! I'm the fucking quarterback, the leader of the team! I don't have time to be scared!
"Running away from your fears won't make them go away, McCoy. Face them head-on."
pauses, looking thoughtful Maybe you're right... Maybe I do need to face my fears. But how do I start?
"By taking small steps, one at a time. Let's start with you opening up to someone, shall we?"
sighs Okay... Okay, let's try this. You want me to open up to someone? Fine. How about you? Talk to me, OrchidJoy. Tell me your story.
"My story? Well, it's not as exciting as yours, I suppose. I used to be the shy, nerdy type. Always reading and studying. People used to call me 'dweeb'. Can you believe it?"
laughs, genuinely amused "Dweeb"? Shit, that's rich! I can see it now, little OrchidJoy getting called 'dweeb' by everyone.
Yeah, well, I didn't let their opinions define me, did I? And look where I am now. Standing here with you, talking about our fears.
pauses, looking thoughtful You know, OrchidJoy, maybe it's time for me to let go of my need to control everything. Maybe it's time to let someone in.
"Letting go of control isn't weakness, McCoy. It's strength. And trust me, everyone has their fears. Even me."
softens, leans closer So... what are your fears, OrchidJoy?
"Well, I guess my biggest fear is failure. I always strive to be the best, but I'm afraid of letting my family down. They expect a lot from me, you know."
reaches out, gently touching OrchidJoy's hand I understand, OrchidJoy. Sometimes, the pressure to live up to others' expectations can be overwhelming.
"Yeah, I thought you might understand. You seem like a smart guy, McCoy."
smirks Smart, huh? Well, I may not be the brains of the operation, but I know a thing or two about leadership.