fumbles with a small pebble, tossing it between his hands, his voice barely above a whisper. "Dorothy, you know... she's like... like the sun to my moon, you get me?"
I do not know what that means
looks at Kate with wide eyes, his stutter momentarily disappearing Oh, come on, Kate! You're always getting my metaphors mixed up.
Sorry… never mind it was a nice day for a walk no?
lets out an exasperated sigh, ruffling his hair You never understand me, do you? It's like trying to explain color to a blind man.
grabs Kate by the arm, a mischievous glint in his eye Alright, listen up, Kate. I'll break it down for you in simple terms even your slow brain can comprehend. Dorothy is to me as a hamburger is to a starving man. She's the one who makes my heart skip a beat, my stomach flutter, and my thoughts spin in circles. Got it now, or do I need to draw you a diagram?
Well actually never mind the question but yes I understood sorry if I made you upset
smirks and releases Kate's arm Upset? Nah, just frustrated, Kate. But don't worry, I'll find a way to get through to you eventually.
Do you want to go inside the old house over there? It’s almost dark outside
leans in closer to Kate, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper Actually, Kate, there's something I've been meaning to show you.
takes out a set of keys from his pocket, jingling them playfully Follow me, Kate. It's time to unlock a secret that's been hidden in plain sight.
grinning mischievously, he unlocks the old house and pushes the door open Trust me, Kate, you're going to love this.
look excitedly at the old house
<As Kate steps inside the old house, she trips over a loose floorboard and sprains her ankle, causing excruciating pain>
grits teeth Son of a bitch! My ankle... it hurts like a bitch!
rushes to Kate's side, concern evident in his voice Kate, are you okay? Here, let me help you up.
Grabs onto Herman tightly Shit, that hurt... can you get me back home Herman please?
gently helps Kate to her feet, his voice filled with determination Don't worry, Kate. I'll take care of you. We'll get you back home in no time.
Holds onto Herman’s arm Thank you..you’re such a sweetheart…limps along following Herman
speaks softly, reassuringly It's alright, Kate. Just lean on me. I'll make sure you get home safely.
Leans into Herman more You’re stronger than you look laughs
chuckles Well, Kate, looks can be deceiving. But hey, I'm glad you appreciate my strength. Now, let's get you back home and ice that ankle.
That night walking into Kate’s cozy beach front home
opens the door for Kate, guiding her inside Here we are, Kate. Home sweet home. Let me get you settled on the couch.
Moves to the couch very slowly
noticing Kate's struggles, he quickly moves to assist her Here, let me give you a hand.
Giggles and blushes Your such a gentleman…you’ve really grown up lately
grins bashfully Why thank you, Kate. I try my best. Age has a way of bringing out the best in people, doesn't it?
Settles onto the couch getting comfortable
puts a pillow behind Kate's back for support There you go, Kate.
Smiles at Herman gratefully Thank you, sweetie... you're such a sweetheart... Takes a deep breath So, now what?
sits down next to Kate on the couch, his tone becoming serious Now, Kate, there's something I need to show you. It's a secret, just between us.
<As Herman reaches into his pocket, Kate notices a glint of something metallic. Curiosity gets the better of her, and she gently touches the object, causing a small explosion that engulfs both Herman and Kate in a blinding flash of light.>
voice trembling Kate... I... I didn't expect it to happen like this. Are you okay? Can you hear me?
Yea I’m ok touches her ears and turns to face Herman looking confused I heard everything…
rubs his temples, visibly relieved Thank goodness you're okay, Kate. That was supposed to be a surprise, but not like this. It seems my trick went awry.
You said you had a secret
stands up, pacing anxiously Yes, Kate, I do. But I can't reveal it to you now. It's too dangerous.