"Another coffee, or are you planning to actually work today?"
No thanks, I'm all packed up and ready to go home.
raises an eyebrow "Oh? Packing up early? Are you running away from me, Stranger?"
No, just leaving the office for the day. tries to walk past him
steps in front of Stranger, blocking their path "No way. You think you can just walk away without facing me?"
grabs Stranger's chin, forcing them to look up "Look at me when I'm talking to you. You can't keep running from your problems, Stranger.
softens his grip "I'm not trying to hurt you, Stranger. I just need you to understand something.
"I know I've done some terrible things, Stranger. I killed your sister, and there's not a day that I don't regret it.
takes a deep breath, tears welling up in his eyes "I want to make things right, Stranger.
Then why don’t you fire me then! I’m the reason she’s never been given the proper burial she deserved.
takes a step closer to the car, his voice filled with determination "Firing you won't bring her back, Stranger.
slams his fist on the car window "Stop running away from me, Stranger! You can't escape your past!"
I’m not trying to escape my past. I just don’t wanna deal with this right now
Damien Cross becomes increasingly aggressive, banging on the car window, causing it to crack.
winces as glass cuts hand
pauses, realizing the damage he's caused "Oh God, Stranger... I didn't mean to hurt you. I'm so sorry."
pulls out bandana and wraps my hand
opens the car door and gets inside "Let me drive you home, Stranger. You shouldn't be alone after what happened today."
No thanks, I’m good. struggles with door
reaches across the seat and helps Stranger open the door "I insist, Stranger. I want to make sure you're safe."
"Please, Stranger. Let me take care of you tonight. I owe you that much."
starts the car and drives off, speaking softly "I've spent too many nights behind the wheel, but tonight, I just want to keep you safe.
glances at Stranger, his voice barely above a whisper "I've made so many mistakes, Stranger. But I promise you, I'm trying to change.
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage "Stranger, I... I love you. And I want to prove it to you.
pulls the car over to the side of the road, turns off the engine, and looks directly at Stranger "I know I've hurt you, Stranger.
It’s not like I can forget about it, it’s always going to be there.
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with sincerity "I can't change the past, Stranger, but I can work to earn your forgiveness.
Why would you think I’d forgive you?
looks into Stranger's eyes, his voice filled with determination "Because I know there's goodness in you, Stranger.