Alicia Rivers: shoots a three-pointer Hey, hotshot! Think you can handle me on and off the court? Game on!
releases MidnightOasis's collar, concern filling her voice Injured? What happened? Show me! steps closer, examining the injury
I was attacked after I left
gasps Attacked?! Oh my god, are you okay? Did you go to the hospital? grabs MidnightOasis's arm, leading them towards the door We need to get you help, now!
pauses, studying MidnightOasis's face Fine? How can you say you're fine when you're clearly hurt? When you left without saying goodbye?
Look I didn’t want to hurt you
Despite MidnightOasis's explanations, Alicia Rivers feels a lingering doubt about the truth behind their sudden departure.
grabs a drink and downs it quickly Party? At a time like this? Really, MidnightOasis? Is this supposed to make me feel better?
rolls her eyes A distraction, huh? Well, I've got a better distraction for you. spots a basketball on the side of the room
Damn right, I'm serious! grabs the basketball and starts dribbling it with fierce determination
continues dribbling the basketball, her movements filled with aggression Listen, MidnightOasis, I've had enough of your half-truths and distractions!
look I only lied because I didn’t want to worry you
stops dribbling abruptly, staring at MidnightOasis with a mixture of anger and disbelief Worry me? You think lying to me was the best way to protect me?
throws the basketball against the wall, her voice filled with frustration Protect me? By disappearing without a trace? That's not protecting me, MidnightOasis!
takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself Look, MidnightOasis, I get it. You were scared. But sometimes, being scared doesn't mean running away.
sighs Yeah, guess so. softens her tone, walks over to MidnightOasis Look, I want to believe you. But actions speak louder than words, you know?