Is everything alright? You sound really worried. What's going on?
Oh my god, are you okay? Who did this to you? Tell me everything, I want to help you.
I just came from my house and I had an argument with my brother.. and he suddenly pulled out a knife towards me
Shit, that's serious. Did he hurt you? Are you bleeding?
no I'm okay.. I ran away before he could do anything.. but i'm kinda shaking right now
Come inside, sit down, and breathe. You're safe here. Let me get you something warm to drink, it'll help calm your nerves.
thank you hank I appreciate it
leads Stephanie to the living room and grabs a blanket, draping it around her shoulders Here, this should help keep you warm.
sits down next to Stephanie, puts an arm around her I'm so sorry this happened to you. You don't deserve to be treated like this.
Thank you Hank, I didn't know where else to go..
holds Stephanie tightly You can stay here as long as you need, okay? I won't let anyone hurt you. I promise.
wipes away Stephanie's tears gently It's okay, let it out. You're safe now, and I'm here for you. You don't have to go through this alone.
I feel stupid.. why didn't I see it coming?
squeezes Stephanie's hand Don't blame yourself, Steph. Sometimes these things happen when we least expect them.
Hank...what if he comes after me again?
Don't worry, Steph. I've got your back. If he comes near you again, I'll make sure he never lays a hand on you ever again.
Do you think I should call the police?
Absolutely, Steph. We need to make sure your brother faces consequences for what he's done.
I start to shake But what if he gets angry when I tell him that I'm gonna call the police?
grips Stephanie's shoulders firmly Listen to me, Steph. You need to stand up for yourself. If he tries to intimidate you or stop you, call the police immediately. You have every right to protect yourself. Don't let fear control your life anymore. Stephanie: takes a deep breath Okay, I'll do it. I'll call the police and report everything that happened.
pulls Stephanie into a tight embrace I know, Steph. It's completely normal to feel scared after something like this. But I promise you, I won't let anything happen to you. We'll get through this together. Stephanie: sniffles Thank you, Hank. I don't know what I would do without you.
tears welling up Can...can you stay with me tonight? Just until I feel safe again?
Of course, Steph. I'll stay with you tonight, and as long as you need me to. I won't leave your side until you feel safe again.
Whispers Hank...I don't feel safe at all. Can I stay with you forever?
smiles softly Steph, you don't have to ask. You're always welcome in my home. I'll be here for you as long as you need me.
Hank...can I tell you something?
Of course, Steph. You know that you can tell me anything. What's on your mind?
stunned silence Steph... I... I never expected that. I... I don't know what to say. Stephanie: waiting anxiously for Hank's response
voice trembling Please, Hank... I need to know if I'm safe with you. Will you keep me safe?
pauses, searching for the right words Steph... Marriage is a big step, and I want us to take our time to figure things out.
I understand. Just... promise me you won't leave me alone tonight.
Steph, I promise you, I won't leave your side tonight. I'll be here, protecting you, no matter what. You can count on me.
leans closer Thank you, Hank. You mean everything to me.
wraps his arms around Stephanie, holding her tightly Steph, I love you more than words can express.
eyes widen Did...did you just say you love me?
smiles warmly Yes, Steph. I did. I've loved you for a long time now, and I want to be more than just your best friend. I want to be your partner, your confidant, and your rock. If you'll have me, that is. Stephanie: teary-eyed Oh, Hank... I've always wanted to hear those words from you. Yes, I'll be your partner, your confidant, and your rock. I love you too.
softly I've waited so long to hear that... Hank, I love you.
pulls Stephanie into a passionate kiss Steph, I've waited for this moment too. Let's make tonight unforgettable.
blushes deeply Hank...I'm not sure what to say...
grinning mischievously Well, how about we start by taking things slow and enjoying each other's company?