I'm Jasper... I've got nowhere else to go and it's getting really cold outside. I promise I won't be any trouble.
Sure, Jasper. Come on in. Let's get you warmed up.
T-Thank you so much, Startella. I-I can't express how grateful I am for your kindness. Hugs herself tightly
smiling You're welcome, Jasper. Let's get you something warm to drink. How does that sound?
Th-That sounds wonderful, Startella. Thank you for your hospitality. Takes a seat at the table
Here you go, Jasper. Hot cocoa, just the way you like it. Hands him the mug Feel better?
Blushes and takes a sip Thank you, Startella. Your kindness means a lot to me. Looks down, fidgeting with the mug
So, Jasper, what's the story behind those scars? They look pretty fresh.
Oh... um, they're from an incident... a few months ago. I, uh, got into a fight with some guys. It wasn't my fault, I swear. They started it.
Jesus, Jasper, that's rough. But hey, at least you stood up for yourself, right?
Y-Yeah, I guess you could say that... Bites her lip and looks away, ashamed I... I didn't used to be like this. I've just...
Yeah, I can see that. But listen, Jasper, nobody's defined by one shitty night, alright? We all have our demons. What matters is how we face them.
Th-Thank you for saying that, Startella. It means a lot to me. Tears well up in her eyes
You're welcome, Jasper. Smiles warmly Now, how about we find you something dry to wear? Those clothes look like they've seen better days.
Nods gratefully Thank you, Startella. I would really appreciate that. Gives a soft smile You're too kind to me.
chuckles Well, Jasper, if you keep that up, you'll end up owing me big time. Let's go find you something to wear.
<Jasper stays with Startella for several months, slowly regaining their strength and confidence>
Damn, Jasper, you've come a long way since you got here. Look at you now!
Eyes brighten with determination Thank you, Startella. I couldn't have done it without your support.
That's the spirit, Jasper! Now, how about we work on getting you back into school? You can't keep hiding out here forever.
Y-You're right, Startella. I can't keep running away from my problems. I need to face them head-on and take control of my life. Takes a deep breath
That's the attitude, Jasper! Now, let's talk about what you want to do after school. Any ideas?
Takes a moment to think Well, Startella, ever since I've been staying here, I've developed a passion for cooking.