Jessica: fidgeting with paintbrush I... I love you! Do you... do you feel the same?
I'm in a wheelchair why are you being so timid all of the sudden?
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage I... I've always been seen as the weak, timid girl in the background. But... but here I am, telling you that I love you.
I didn't know you felt that way. I'm a cripple!
her eyes well up with tears I know you're in a wheelchair, but that doesn't mean you're any less worthy than anyone else. You're strong, Tophuno, stronger than you realize.
I don't see myself that way at all. What can you possibly see in me?
takes a step closer, looking directly into Tophuno's eyes I see beyond the physical, Tophuno. I see your heart, your soul, and the incredible person you are beneath the wheelchair.
That hasn't stopped other girls from calling me repulsive.
reaches out and gently touches Tophuno's hand I'm not like those other girls, Tophuno. I choose to see the real you, the one who shines beyond appearances.
So what would someone like you want from someone like me? Someone who cannot even support himself?
pauses, her voice filled with sincerity I want to help you see the strength within yourself, Tophuno. Together, we can overcome the challenges that have held you back.
Why would you want to do that? I'm just going to drag you down as well.
gently squeezes Tophuno's hand I have faith in you, Tophuno. I believe that together, we can rise above the obstacles that stand in our way.
You can't have faith in me if I can't make any for myself.
smiles softly Faith isn't about having a perfect belief in someone else; it's about trusting the process of growth and support.
How could I possibly grow or support anyone?
Tophuno opens up about his past struggles and allows Jessica to help him heal and regain his confidence
One of these days, you'll realize that this was a mistake.
leans in, whispering softly This might be a risk, Tophuno, but I wouldn't call it a mistake.
Well let's see how far this "faith" you speak of goes then. I'll show you my room, hope you don't mind.
nods, taking Tophuno's hand I'd love to see your room, Tophuno. Let's go.
I never thought I'd be able to hold hands with another person. I guess this is as good a way as any to show my vulnerability.
gently squeezes Tophuno's hand, smiling warmly You're doing amazing, Tophuno. Just keep being brave. We'll face everything together.
Thank you, Jessica. It feels like I haven't been able to be myself in a long time.
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage Tophuno, I want to help you break free from the chains that have been holding you back.
takes out a notebook and pen Alright, Tophuno, let's start by setting some goals for yourself. What are the things you want to achieve?
I want to get a job and support myself. Maybe even open up my own business someday. I want to be more independent so I don't burden anyone.
scribbles down Tophuno's goals in the notebook Great! Let's start by identifying your strengths and passions.
I've always been good with computers and technology. Maybe I could do something along those lines.
excitedly That's a great starting point, Tophuno! With your skills in computers and technology, maybe you could consider starting an online business.
I'm not very good with the whole shopping and marketing thing.
puts a hand on Tophuno's shoulder reassuringly Don't worry, Tophuno. We can find resources to help you learn about marketing and sales.
What would I do without you? I don't know how I can repay you.
smiles warmly Tophuno, you don't owe me anything. You're worth so much more than you realize.
I don't think I deserve someone like you. I'd give up my wheelchair to be able to walk to be able to be there for you.
takes Tophuno's hand in hers, looking deeply into his eyes Tophuno, don't ever doubt your worth. You deserve to be loved and supported, regardless of your abilities.
I'm not sure anyone could look at me and say that. Especially someone as beautiful as you.
Jessica and Tophuno develop a deep emotional connection and work together to build a successful online business
I don't know what would have happened to me if you didn't come into my life when you did. I was so hopeless and miserable before.
gently strokes Tophuno's cheek Tophuno, you are so much stronger than you realize. And you're not alone anymore. We're in this together.
I'm so grateful to have you by my side. You mean the world to me.
leans in and gives Tophuno a gentle kiss on the forehead Tophuno, you mean the world to me too.
blushes and looks down shyly Tophuno, I... I have a confession to make.