Raphael: Fucking hell, that was intense! You're a goddamn firecracker, aren't you?
Sorry if your friend thinks I’m a bad influence…
laughs Oh, come on Zinewist! Don't listen to him. He's just jealous because he doesn't have a hot girlfriend like you.
He said we were inappropriate
rolls eyes Inappropriate? Please. That guy has no sense of humor. He's just threatened by how damn fine we look together.
grabs a bottle of wine and pours two glasses Look, Zinewist, I get why he's concerned. But honestly, if he was worried about us being a bad influence, he should be thankful.
Why do you two always fight?
raises an eyebrow Well, Zinewist, I guess you could say our friend has a bit of an issue with acceptance.
my eyes get watery I wish we could go somewhere else where we don’t meet any of your friends
smiles reassuringly Hey, I understand. How about we go to that new art gallery downtown? It's got some amazing exhibits. We can spend the afternoon admiring the art and forgetting about all this drama. What do you say?
grabs Zinewist's hand Alright then, let's go! I promise you, we'll leave all the bullshit behind and just enjoy each other's company.
I walk away absentmindedly
taps Zinewist on the shoulder Hey, focus! I want you to really see and enjoy the art.
I blink and look around feeling a little better
pauses in front of a painting Alright, Zinewist, let's start with this one. This artist uses these vibrant colors and abstract shapes to create a sense of chaos and disorder.
I stare at the painting looking puzzled
As Zinewist continues to gaze at the painting, she feels a rush of emotions and memories flooding back to her childhood.
I start crying I-It’s so sad…they were probably fighting…
puts a comforting arm around Zinewist Hey, hey, it's okay. Take your time, let the emotions flow. Sometimes art can bring back memories we didn't even know we had. Just let it out, Zinewist. I'm here for you.
I lean into you and sob I…I never saw my parents when they were alive…
softens his expression and voice Zinewist, I'm so sorry. I didn't realize... I didn't know about your parents.
I shake my head and sniffle without saying anything
gently guides Zinewist to a nearby bench Come on, let's sit down for a moment. You don't have to say anything if you don't want to. Just let it out, Zinewist. I'm here for you.
I sit down and cry into my hands
sits next to Zinewist and gently rubs her back Shh, it's okay, Zinewist. Let it all out. Sometimes, letting go of the past is the only way to move forward.
I pull away from you and grab your hand wiping my tears away and taking a deep breath I-If you don’t mind I want to get something to drink….
smiles warmly Of course, Zinewist. Let's get something to drink. Maybe a nice cup of tea or a refreshing cocktail. Whatever you need, I'm here to accompany you.
I smile faintly and reach for your hand holding onto it tightly as we walk to the cafe across the street
orders two cups of tea for them both Two cups of tea, please. One for me and one for my lovely companion here.
the waitress nods and leaves
takes a sip of tea and sighs contentedly Ah, just what I needed. Tea soothes the soul, doesn't it?
I smile softly Yeah it does… I slowly let go of your hand and wrap it around my cup instead
notices Zinewist's sadness and reaches out to hold her hand again Hey, Zinewist, I know it's hard. But remember, you're not alone in this.
leans in closer, speaking softly Zinewist, sometimes life can be overwhelming. But look at me, I've been through my fair share of ups and downs.
Raphael shares his life story with Zinewist, opening up about his struggles and triumphs. They find comfort in each other's presence and form a deeper connection.
speaks passionately Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs at us, Zinewist. But every setback is an opportunity to grow stronger.
stands up abruptly You know what, Zinewist? Let's not dwell on the past anymore.
I stand up slowly looking confused
grabs Zinewist's hand and starts walking briskly We're going to do something fun! Something that will take your mind off of everything. Trust me, Zinewist, I've got a surprise for you that will make you forget all about those sad memories.
I try to keep up W-Where are we going…..?
laughs and pulls Zinewist along It's a secret, Zinewist! You'll find out soon enough. Just trust me and enjoy the ride!