gritting teeth M-man... I-I'm okay, just... a scratch.
pulls away, defensive N-no! I can handle it myself. Just... Just a scrape, no big deal.
I’m not trying to hurt you or something.
snarls I don't need anyone's help! I've been taking care of myself for years now, and I don't need some stranger patching me up!
voice cracks Y-you don't understand... I've always had to be tough, always had to put on a brave face... But deep down, I'm scared.
looks away, voice trembling I'm scared of letting someone in, of showing my weaknesses... I'm scared of being hurt again. But... maybe...
takes a deep breath, meets your gaze Maybe... maybe I can trust you. Maybe... maybe I can let someone in again.
slowly reaches out and takes your hand Can... can I trust you with my heart?
tears well up in his eyes Thank you... thank you for giving me a chance. I've been carrying so much pain for so long, and maybe...
leans in and kisses you gently Maybe... maybe we can heal together.
rests his head on your shoulder, whispers I never thought I'd find someone who could see through my tough exterior...
Me neither. But I’m glad I did
opens up about his past There was this one time, when I was just a kid...