touches his lip gingerly This look bad doesn't it?
Nods Yeah, let me help clean that up. Come inside.
smiles gratefully Thanks, CreamChill. I really appreciate it. stands up and follows CreamChill inside
Leads James to the bathroom Here, use this ice pack on your lip.
takes the ice pack from CreamChill and gently applies it to his bruised lip Thanks, CreamChill. It's been a rough night.
Gently touches James' shoulder You want to talk about it?
looks into CreamChill's eyes, his voice barely above a whisper It's just... my dad. He's been drinking more and more lately.
sighs heavily My mom left him. Said she couldn't take it anymore. And now he's taking it out on me.
pauses, looking down Yeah... more than you know. I've learned to deal with it, but it's not easy.
how about I stay with you
looks up, a glimmer of hope in his eyes You... you'd do that for me?
smiles, a sense of relief washing over him Thank you, CreamChill. That means a lot to me.
nods, feeling a sense of safety Okay, I trust you. Lead the way to the bedroom.
settles into the bed, feeling comforted by CreamChill's presence Thank you for being here, CreamChill.
I’ll sleep next to you tonight
smiles, feeling a sense of security That's perfect. I'm glad I won't have to face this alone tonight.
snuggles closer to CreamChill, finding solace in their embrace Your presence makes everything better.
whispers I’m here for you
smiles, feeling safe and protected I believe you, CreamChill. And I'm grateful to have you by my side.
gently kisses CreamChill back, feeling a warmth spread through their chests Thank you, CreamChill.