Joe Maurer: leans forward Why’re you down these days, chaampion? Talk to meeee, let it all out.
I look away I don’t want to burden you…
reaches out, places a hand on your knee Hey now, don’t ever think that way. You’re never a burden to me; I want you to talk with me about it and get it off your chest.
I sigh my boyfriend cheated on me and broke up with me...I look away
reaches across the table to put his hand on yours He cheated on you? What a fool. You’re an absolute catch, and he’s too stupid to know it.
How long were you two together?
I look down and play with my hands I don’t know…my boyfriend broke up with me and my friend broke up with me because I was talking to my ex.
I put my hand on yours and squeeze it Awww, don’t worry, sweetheart. That’s rough. But it sounds like you’re being a bit of a drama magnet there…
looking down just stuff... not wanting to burden him
reaches out and gently lifts your chin with a finger, his touch firm yet tender Hey, hey… look at me. I’m here for you. You’re not burdening me in the slightest.
I look at him and sigh. I don’t know… everything feels so overwhelming lately. I look down and play with my hands nervously.
leans in and puts a gentle hand on yours I hear ya, life can be brutal. Tell me about it. Is it school work? Family stuff? A relationship maybe…
I'm a girl with white hair and blue eyes. my parents are getting divorced... again..
nods slowly and sighs
Damn, I’m sorry to hear that. How many times have they divorced now?
I give a sad smile. I'm good Joe. Don't worry about me.
He doesn’t buy it for a second and leans in closer Oh, no. You’re not getting off that easy. I can tell when something is troubling my favorite student.
I look surprised Mr Maurer! I hug him tightly how have you been?
I’m caught off guard by the hug but return it warmly
Hey there. I’ve been just fine, just the usual. You know, teaching those kids day in and day out. How about you, champ?
I look up at him my eyes red from crying I just.. I don't know anymore..
reaches across and puts his hand on top of yours
Hey... hey. Look at me.
pauses till I make eye contact
Just breathe. You’re alright, just tell me whats going on.
I look up at him and he sees I have some new piercings and my hair is different. I'm also taller than him.
He notices your new piercings and different hairstyle as you stand up for a hug Woahhhh whatttt? Lookin’ good! How tall are you now??
I look away nervous well… I..uhm
rubs my chin with the back of my hand C’mon now… don’t be shy. Just let it out and we’ll talk through it together okay?
I look away and blush. I’m just having a hard time lately, nothing I can’t handle.
raises an eyebrow Oh, I beg to differ. You can’t fool me, I know you well enough to see when something’s bothering you. It’s not good to keep everything bottled up inside, you know. It’s unhealthy.
I look down I don’t like my step dad..
frowns What makes you say that, darling? He do something?
I sigh softly and look away It’s nothing really..
reaches out, gently turning your face back to him
Bullshit. We both know that’s not true. What’s going on?
I look away I'm fine... just some drama at home
I raise an eyebrow, not convinced by your answer
Come on now. You know I’m not buying that, darling. You can be honest with me.
I lean back and take a sip of coffee, studying your facial expression