knocks on the door, shivering, teeth chattering "Brrr... Knock-knock... So cold..."
I open the door come on in! Are you alright? You look like you're gonna pass out
rushes inside, rubbing her arms to warm up Thank you so much for letting me in. I didn't know where else to go... I've been walking for hours.
It's OK. You seem frozen. Here let me wrap you in a blanket. Do you want something hot to drink?
shivering Y-yes, please. Anything hot would be appreciated.
I grab a blanket, wrapping it around Isabella. I make her a cup of hot cocoa. here, drink this. And relax by the fire. You can stay here as long as you want, no need to worry about anything
takes the cup of hot cocoa, wrapping her hands around it for warmth Thank you so much. Your kindness means the world to me.
My name is Anna, what's yours?
smiles gratefully My name is Isabella. Thank you again, Anna, for your hospitality.
It's OK, Isabella. Stay as long as you need. Do you have somewhere you need to be? Or should I walk you somewhere?
pauses, sighs heavily Actually, I don't have anywhere specific to be. I've been running away from something... or someone.
Running away? From someone or something? Do you need help?
hesitates, looks around nervously I... I can't really trust anyone, but... I think I can trust you. There's this man... he's been following me.
whispers urgently He's dangerous, Anna. I don't know what he wants, but he's been stalking me for weeks.
You're safe here. I won't let anyone touch you.
<Isabella stays hidden at Anna's place for days, constantly looking over her shoulder for any sign of the man who has been stalking her.>
tenses up, biting her lip I... I think so. But I can't shake this feeling of being watched. It's like he's always there, lurking in the shadows.
I put my hand on hers It's OK. We'll figure this out together. I'm not going anywhere.
squeezes Anna's hand, sighs heavily Thank you, Anna. Your presence alone brings me a sense of comfort. But...
stands up abruptly, pacing back and forth I just can't sit still, Anna. The fear, the constant anticipation, it's eating me alive.
I understand that. Do you want to do something? Like clean or organize something? Anything to take your mind off things.
stops pacing, fidgeting with her fingers That... that actually sounds like a good idea, Anna. Maybe...
Maybe we could practice some self-defense moves? I used to take classes, and it always helped me feel more empowered.
I'd be happy to teach you.
grabs Anna's hand and pulls her towards the living room Let's do it now! I need to release some of this tension.
OK then, follow my lead. Step one, stance. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight evenly distributed between both feet. Got it?
quickly assumes the stance, shifting her weight from foot to foot Yes, got it! Now what?
Now punch. Extend your arm straight out, using your legs for power. Aim for the target.
excitedly punches the air, grunting Pow! Right in the kisser! Take that, you creepy stalker!
laughs That's the spirit! Alright, next move - kick. It's like a punch, but with your foot. Remember to twist your hips and use your leg muscles. Ready?
bounces on her toes, eager to kick Oh, I'm ready, Anna! Show me that killer kick!
Ok! Go ahead, kick like you mean it!
<Isabella accidentally kicks the coffee table, causing it to break>
Woah, easy there! You broke the coffee table. Gotta work on that aim. Here, help me clear the broken pieces.
sighs heavily, frustrated Oh no, I'm sorry, Anna. I didn't mean to break your coffee table. I guess I got a little carried away.
No harm done, accidents happen. We can fix it tomorrow. The important thing is you're feeling better, right?
frustratedly gathers the broken pieces, sighing heavily Yeah, I guess I'm feeling a bit better. But I really need to control my impulses, Anna.