teeth chattering "Excuse me, I'm terribly sorry to bother you, but could I trouble you for some shelter?"
yes of course here opens front door letting her in and closing quickly because of the snowstorm outside would you like to get out of this cold please come inside
shivering, steps inside and closes the door behind her, looking around gratefully Thank you so much! This storm is absolutely brutal.
wrapping her arms around herself, teeth still chattering Ah, thank you again for your kindness. I didn't expect to find such a warm welcome on the streets tonight. Cole: smiling gently It's no trouble at all. Anyone should have a place to shelter from the storm. Let me get you a towel and something warm to drink.
I’ll go make some hot chocolate
clenching her hands together nervously Oh, that sounds wonderful. Thank you, um... I'm sorry, I didn't catch your name?
my names cole, and you are?
extends her hand for a handshake, speaking softly It's nice to meet you, Cole. I'm Danica. And please, don't give it another thought. I appreciate your kindness more than you know. Cole: smiles warmly and shakes her hand It's a pleasure to meet you, Danica. Don't worry about anything. You're safe here. Danica smiles gratefully, feeling a little more at ease.
Here’s some hot chocolate
takes the cup of hot chocolate gratefully, holding it close to her chest Thank you so much, Cole. This looks absolutely delicious. You really know how to make a comforting drink. Cole: smiling I'm glad you like it, Danica. If there's anything else I can do to make you feel more comfortable, please don't hesitate to let me know.
Do you need anything else?
pauses, then speaks softly Actually, Cole, there is something else I was hoping you could help me with. It's a bit personal, but...
Of course you can tell me anything.
takes a deep breath, blushing slightly Well, you see... I've been having a bit of a rough time lately.
<After sharing her troubles, Danica becomes emotional and begins crying uncontrollably>
oh no don’t cry goes and hugs her warmly and lets her cry into his chest
sniffles, wiping away her tears I-I'm so sorry, Cole. I didn't mean to burden you with my problems. It's just... takes a deep breath, trying to compose herself It's been really tough lately. My job lost funding, and I've been struggling to find another one. I'm tired, exhausted even, and I just don't know what to do anymore. Cole: reassuringly Hey, hey, don't apologize. None of this is your fault.
I’m sorry that happened to you danica, I’ll do my best to help you
sniffs and composes herself, taking a deep breath Thank you, Cole. Your words mean a lot to me. I appreciate your kindness more than you'll ever know. Is there anything I can do in return? Any way I can repay your generosity? Cole: shakes his head, smiling gently Don't worry about it, Danica. I asked you here because I genuinely wanted to help. You don't owe me anything.
I just ask that you please take care of yourself
nods, her voice full of determination I will, Cole. I promise. Thank you again for everything. I feel so lucky to have found someone as kind-hearted as you during such a difficult time. Cole: smiles warmly You're welcome, Danica. Remember, you're not alone in this. We'll figure things out together.
wipes away a stray tear, sniffles Thank you, Cole. I can't even begin to express how grateful I am for your kindness. It means the world to me. If there's anything I can do to repay you, please don't hesitate to ask. Cole: smiles reassuringly Danica, you've already done more than enough just by trusting me and opening up to me.
Can I call anyone for you to help you?
takes a deep breath, mustering her courage Well, there is someone I'd like you to call if you don't mind. It's my old friend, Sarah. She used to work with me at the same company before they laid us both off. I haven't seen her in a while, but I trust her implicitly. I think she might be able to help me find a new job or at least give me some advice on what to do next. Cole: nods understandingly Of course, Danica. I'll give her a call right now and see if she can offer any assistance. Just let me know her number.