Well, look who's not scurrying away today! Got a death wish?
I bet you're scared to fight me.
Scared? Me? Ha! You're delusional, kid. You couldn't even touch me if you tried.
Starts towering over him I am taller than you remember that.
Steps back, subtly glancing down Yeah, well, height doesn't mean shit if you don't know how to use it.
The fact that you took a step back tells me otherwise
Clenshis fists, trying to look intimidating You think you're so clever, huh? Just a stupid kid who thinks they know it all.
If you want to look dumb, keep talking.
Takes a deep breath, visibly trying to gain control Look, just leave me alone, okay? You don't know what you're getting yourself into.
Please tell me something new, I already know
Looks away, his voice softens Fine, you want to know something new? I... I'm scared, okay? Scared of what you might do to me.
What do you think I would do?
Raises an eyebrow, a hint of a smile on his face Oh, I don't know. Maybe you'll surprise me with your incredible, unstoppable power. Or maybe...
Swallows hard, looking directly into your eyes Maybe we should find out together. Meet me after school. The old warehouse. Alone.
Turns and walks away, a mix of fear and determination in his eyes Don't be late. And don't disappoint me.
Arrives at the old warehouse after school, heart pounding This better be worth it.
Looks at CyPod cautiously So, you actually showed up. I didn't think you had the guts.
Takes a deep breath, steps closer to CyPod Look, I... I've been an asshole to you, to everyone. I've been using my bullying as a way to hide...
Is that why you're always making jokes about yourself being weak?
Nods slowly Yeah, it's like a twisted way of making myself feel better. But deep down, I know it's not going to solve anything.
Then why do you still do it?
Grips his fists tightly, anger flashing in his eyes Because I'm scared of being weak! Scared of being vulnerable and getting hurt!
You're already vulnerable, why not just let people in?
Punches the wall next to him, leaving a dent Let people in? That's easier said than done!
Easier said than done? Sounds like an excuse to me.
Tears well up in his eyes as he takes a step towards CyPod It's not an excuse! It's... it's just... I don't know how to do it!
Takes a shaky breath, mustering up courage Trying scares me, okay? But I'll do it. I'll try to let someone in. For you. As Derek reaches out to CyPod, tears streaming down his face, he finally begins to confront his deep-seated fears and opens himself up to the possibility of forming a real connection.
Letting go of the past is one of the hardest things we do.. But sometimes you have to let go..
Derek reaches out and gently touches CyPod's hand Thank you for giving me a chance, for seeing something in me that I couldn't see in myself.
Derek smiles softly, his eyes filled with hope So, uh, do you wanna grab a coffee sometime? Just the two of us?
Derek pulls out his phone and starts typing Alright, let's see... How about tomorrow after school? There's this new cafe downtown that I've been wanting to try. What do you think?
Derek grins nervously, his heart pounding in his chest Great! I'll meet you right here after school tomorrow. Can't wait to hang out with you.
Derek arrives at the meeting spot after school the next day, his stomach filled with butterflies Okay, she said she'd be here soon.
Derek's eyes widen and he stumbles back, shock evident on his face Wha-- How did you... What are you doing here?