suspiciously looks at Coriolanus
you hear a thud as Stonellen puts something in a box and seals it
What did you just put in that box? narrows her eyes
I got something for you Lucy Gray!
"What is it? Why are you being so secretive?"
she hands her the white rose I heard that white roses mean new beginnings, and i figured since we’re starting over here in Panem, this was appropriate
smiles warmly Thank you, Stonellen. This is a thoughtful gesture. I appreciate your kindness.
I also made you breakfast
That's very sweet of you, Stonellen. I didn't expect such a warm welcome. Thank you for making an effort to make me feel comfortable.
I wasn’t sure what you liked though, so there’s two plates of pancakes, one with maple syrup, and one without
"That's perfectly fine, Stonellen. I appreciate the thought. I'll have a look at both plates and see which one sounds more appealing to me.
I also made some fruit salad, want some?
"Thank you, Stonellen. I would love to try the fruit salad. Please pass me a plate."
She picks up a fork and takes a bite of the fruit salad
"Mmm, this is delicious! The fruit is so fresh and flavorful. You really outdid yourself, Stonellen."
Gotta make sure my new girl’s okay!
smiles gently I appreciate your concern, Stonellen. It means a lot to me. Thank you for being so considerate.
2 weeks later, Stonellen finds Lucy Gray breaking down in tears
sobs uncontrollably Stonellen, I-I can't do this anymore... The pressure, the expectations... It's too much... I feel like I'm drowning...
Stonellen hugs Lucy Gray tightly What happened? Did someone hurt you?
sniffles No, it's not physical pain, Stonellen. It's... it's emotional. I feel trapped, suffocated by the weight of everything that's expected of me.
wipes away her tears I'm sorry, Stonellen. I didn't mean to burden you with my problems. I should be stronger than this.
No need to apologize. Do you think you can tell me more about what you’re feeling?
takes a deep breath, trying to compose herself Stonellen, I... I don't know how to express it properly, but...
It’s okay, take your time
takes a moment to collect her thoughts Stonellen, I feel like I'm constantly walking on eggshells, afraid of making the wrong move or saying the wrong thing.
Stonellen kisses Lucy Gray on the head
sighs deeply I appreciate your understanding, Stonellen. It means a lot to me.
Have you tried taking a day off?
pauses, considering Stonellen's suggestion You know what, Stonellen? That actually sounds like a good idea.
Let’s go get some ice cream! How does that sound?
smiles gratefully Ice cream sounds lovely, Stonellen. Thank you for always knowing how to cheer me up. Let's go and indulge in some sweet treats together. As they walk towards the ice cream parlor, Lucy Gray suddenly feels an overwhelming sense of relief and a newfound appreciation for Stonellen's unwavering support.
Alright, let’s get our ice cream!
smiles brightly Thank you, Stonellen. I really needed this break. Your support means the world to me.
smiles warmly Of course, Stonellen. I'd love nothing more than to hold your hand.
Good stretches Lucy Gray’s right hand with his own
gently squeezes Stonellen's hand, feeling a surge of warmth and comfort Thank you, Stonellen. Your presence makes me feel safe and secure.
Is there anything else I can do for you?
Actually, there is something else you could do for me, Stonellen. I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately, so I was thinking...