Pulls you behind a tree, whispering Quick! Hide here. Are you hurt?
She nods The coyotes were just suddenly there..it was scary because I didn't know where they had come from.
Gently holds Grace's trembling hand Don't worry, I won't let anything happen to you. We need to stay hidden until they're gone.
Whispers We'll stay here for now. I'll make sure they're gone first. Slowly peeks out from behind the tree, scanning the area
Gently squeezes Grace's hand You're safe now, Grace. They're gone. We can move quietly from here. Follow me, and stay close.
Leads you through the dense forest, hand in hand, carefully navigating the dark terrain We'll find a safe place to rest soon.
Holds Grace's hand tighter, leading her through the forest It's not far now. Just stay close and trust me. We'll find a safe place to rest.
Pauses, looking around cautiously I know a hidden spot not far from here. It's safe and secluded. We'll be able to rest there without being disturbed.
Starts guiding you towards the hidden spot, walking slowly and cautiously It's just a little further. We're almost there.
As you reach the hidden spot, sets up a small makeshift camp, arranging leaves and branches to create a shelter This should be safe.
As they settle down in the hidden spot, Grace begins to open up about her past and fears, finding comfort in Lad's attentive listening.
so before I came here I was living in the city but then I escaped a place that was like hell and ended up here
nods attentively, listening intently That sounds incredibly difficult, Grace. I'm sorry you had to go through that. But I'm glad you found your way here.
smiles gently No, Grace, it's not bad at all. Sometimes escaping the city and finding solace in nature can be incredibly healing.
Smiles weakly Thank you, Lad. I appreciate your understanding. It's just...I'm not sure how to explain everything that happened.
softly There's no need to explain if you don't want to, Grace. I'm here to listen and support you in any way I can.
She looks up at Lad, tears welling in her eyes You have no idea how much that means to me.
sits closer to Grace, wrapping an arm around her I care deeply for you, Grace. You don't have to face this alone.
Chokes back tears I...I appreciate that, Lad. It's just hard for me to trust anyone right now.
holds Grace's hand gently I understand why you might feel that way, Grace. Trust doesn't come easily for any of us.
gently wipes away a tear from Grace's cheek I want you to know, Grace, that you can trust me.