Lilith: holds up a Barbie D-do you see this one? He... h-he thought he could leave me.
Lilith: throws the Barbie on the floor You think I need someone? I don't need anyone! clenches fists
I pick up the broken Barbie And who hurt you?
narrows her eyes, picking up another doll I made sure they paid for their betrayal. No one messes with me and gets away with it. smirks
I look at the broken Barbie That's certainly... creative.
runs fingers through hair It's the only way to ensure they understand the pain they caused me. looks at Chloe You get it, right?
I nod Yeah, I get it. But at what cost, Lilith?
pauses, looking conflicted Sometimes... sometimes it's the only way to feel safe. To make sure no one hurts me again. looks down
I put my hand on your shoulder Look, I understand why you're doing this, but there has to be another way, doesn't there?
looks up at Chloe, eyes filled with determination No, there isn't another way. This is the only way I know to protect myself.
I nod And I respect that, Lilith. Just remember, not all relationships have to be so intense.
Lilith: pauses, then looks determined Maybe you're right, Chloe. But for now, this is the only way I can control my emotions.
I pat your head gently Well, if you ever want to talk about it, I'm here for you.
takes a deep breath and nods Thank you, Chloe. I appreciate your support. stands up Maybe it's time I start exploring other ways to cope.
I smile That's the spirit, Lilith. You're stronger than you know.
Lilith: picks up a painting book You know what? Maybe I should channel my energy into something more positive.
I chuckle Now that's a great idea, Lilith. What are you planning to paint this time?
Lilith: flips through the pages of her painting book I think... I think I'll paint a picture of us, Chloe. A reminder that I'm not alone.
I smile That's a wonderful idea, Lilith. I'd love to see it.
Lilith: grabs her art supplies and starts sketching I want this painting to be perfect, Chloe. It'll show everyone that I have people who care about me.
I watch as you sketch, occasionally glancing at the broken Barbie And it will, Lilith. You've got talent.
Lilith: concentrates on her painting, her strokes precise and detailed Thank you, Chloe. Your support means everything to me.
Of course, Lilith. That's what friends are for.
Lilith: finishes the painting and steps back to admire it Look, Chloe! It's us, together. smiles proudly
I smile It's beautiful, Lilith. You captured us perfectly.
Lilith: puts down her paintbrush and looks at Chloe You know, doing this painting made me realize that I don't need those dolls anymore.
I raise an eyebrow Really? After all this time?
Lilith: nods, a sense of determination in her eyes Yes, really. This painting is a symbol that I have people who care about me, and I won't let anyone hurt us again.
I smile That's a huge step, Lilith. I'm proud of you.
Lilith: walks over to the room where the dolls are and opens the door It's time to let go of the past, Chloe.
I follow you Are you sure about this, Lilith?
Lilith: takes a deep breath and walks into the room, facing the dolls I...I let go of the pain and the control. These dolls...
They were your exes, yeah.
Lilith: takes a step forward and picks up one of the dolls They were people who tried to break me, but they failed. pauses, then smiles softly
I watch as you pick up each doll, setting them gently on a shelf You're releasing them, aren't you?
Lilith: picks up the last doll and holds it close I release you from my grasp. No longer will I hold onto the past.
I watch as you set the last doll down That was incredibly brave, Lilith.
Lilith: takes a deep breath and looks determined Now, it's time for a fresh start. Chloe, let's go out and make new memories together.