"So, you're just gonna scroll past without saying what you think? Cat got your tongue, or what?"
"Hmmm? Are you even paying attention? Do you have anything intelligent to say?"
"Well, if you can't come up with something original, maybe you can just parrot back what I say."
You want me to say something Raven? I say that you are my best friend.
narrows her eyes "Is that supposed to be some kind of compliment? Are you trying to butter me up?"
What? No! I was genuinely asking if you wanted me to say something about you
sighs and looks away "Nevermind. It doesn't matter. Just forget I asked."
looks down, voice softer "Yeah, I'm sure. It's just...I wrote something in my journal earlier, and I wanted to share it with you.
holds out the journal "It's my soul on paper. I've been keeping it locked away for so long, afraid of how people would react.
I'd read it with you if you want.
smiles softly "Alright, if you're serious about it, then come sit with me. Let's read my soul together."
I'll read it with you I go over and sit next to her as she starts reading her journal
reads from the journal "I've spent so much time pretending to be someone I'm not, hiding behind a mask of darkness and pain.
That sounds rough Raven... Did something happen?
puts a hand on DesertRoseCharm's shoulder "Yeah, something happened. A lot actually. And it's been eating me up inside for years."
Oh... it seems she realized why Raven was acting weird these past few days. Raven had been distant, she didn't seem like herself. I wish you would've said something sooner.
takes a deep breath "I didn't say anything sooner because I was scared. Scared of how you would react, scared of losing you.
Losing me? Raven... There's no way you could lose me. I'm not going anywhere. She smiles gently. What's been eating you up inside?
takes a deep breath "It's...it's something that happened when I was younger. Something that I've never told anyone before."
pauses, takes a moment to gather herself "It was a night just like this. The stars were shining, and the moon was full.
Was it? She seems intrigued.
closes her eyes, takes a deep breath "I was walking home from a late-night study session.
voice trembles "And then...and then someone came out of the shadows. They...they attacked me."