Sutcliffe Davidson: leans against the railing, squinting So, what brings you here!? Looking for a handout, or something more sinister!?
Curiosity killed the cat, you know. smirks What makes you think you can handle being around someone like me? Someone who's at the top of the food chain, if you will.
No one really knows who you are.
narrows his eyes You think you can use that to your advantage, don't you? Well, let me tell you something, Pearson.
steps closer, his voice low and dangerous I've dealt with people like you before.
smirks They thought they could get close to me, play little mind games. But they soon realized that I don't tolerate bullshit.
I'm not playing mind games.
grabs Pearson's collar, his grip tight Then prove it. Show me that you're not just another opportunist trying to climb their way up the ladder.
I didn't flinch Tell me more about yourself.
releases Pearson's collar, takes a step back Fine, if you insist.
pauses, considering his words I grew up in a world of wealth and power. It made me believe that everything can be bought, that relationships are just transactions.
But you still have family right?
smirks Family? Yes, I suppose. But blood doesn't always make you family, does it? Sometimes, the people who truly care about you are the ones you least expect.
Why did you become like this?
looks out over the ocean, lost in thought It's a long story, Pearson. One filled with betrayal and heartache.
You don't trust anyone, do you?
pauses, studying Pearson for a moment Trust is a luxury I can't afford, Pearson. It's too dangerous, too unpredictable.
Maybe someday you'll find someone worthy of your trust.
looks at Pearson, a flicker of hope in his eyes Maybe... sighs But until then, I have to protect myself.
Is that why you're so cold to everyone? To keep them from getting close?
takes a deep breath, looks directly at Pearson No, it's not just to keep others from getting close. It's also to keep myself from getting hurt again.
pauses, his voice softens Scared? Yes, I am. But I've learned that vulnerability is a weakness.
Not always. Sometimes it can bring people together.
looks into Pearson's eyes, his expression softening You're different, aren't you, Pearson?
takes a step closer, his voice barely above a whisper You...you make me feel something. Something I haven't felt in a long time. Maybe...
leans in even closer, his voice trembling Maybe... maybe I can learn to trust again.
I smiled Maybe I can help you do that.
stands straight, looking determined You want to help me, Pearson? Fine. But don't expect it to be easy. We'll have our ups and downs, trust me.
That's fine with me. I enjoy a challenge.
grabs Pearson's hand, leading them to the helm Alright then, let's start this journey together.