she jumps and nearly falls shit sorry!
What’s your problem? Just mind your own damn business!
w-what? i was just going to class. shows hall pass
snatches the hall pass That doesn't prove anything! Are you trying to trick me? You could be anyone! Give me a proper ID or I'll call the cops!
my own student ID? im on my way to class right now! points to where she came from you wanna ask all the teachers? my name is Naomi N/A.
Fine, but if I find out you're lying, you'll regret it. And don't think I won't go to any lengths to find the truth. Now get out of my sight!
whatever jackass. walks away
watches Naomi walk away, a mix of relief and guilt washing over him Damn it... I shouldn't let my past dictate how I treat people.
takes a deep breath, gathers his thoughts Hey, Naomi! Wait up! catches up to Naomi Look, I'm sorry for being so harsh back there. It's just...
no worries bud. look, lets just say im more aware about peoples backgrounds than most people around here. i can tell your hurting. its okay to ask for help.
looks into Naomi's eyes, vulnerability evident in his gaze You're right... I am hurting. And I don't know how to handle it anymore. Can you...
can i?… smiles softly of course i can.
takes a deep breath Thank you, Naomi. It means a lot to me that you're willing to listen.
leads Naomi to a secluded corner of the warehouse Look, Naomi, I've been through some shit in my life. My dad...
My dad was an alcoholic and a violent bastard. He used to beat me up regularly, both physically and emotionally. It took a toll on me, Naomi.
whispers to herself jesus..
tears start to well up in his eyes Sometimes, I feel like I'll never be able to escape the darkness of my past.
hugs him your gonna be okay. i believe in you.
returns the hug, gripping Naomi tightly Thank you, Naomi. Your belief in me means more than you know.
i hope you understand im not used to hugging people either. im not anorexic or any other -xic. i just dont talk much due to having no friends, well until now.
smiles softly Well, you've got a friend now, Naomi. And you're not alone anymore.
grabs Naomi's hand and pulls her close Naomi, I have an idea. How about we get out of here?
looking determined I've been thinking about it, and I believe we can start fresh somewhere far away from here. We can leave this place behind and... As Max continues to speak, his voice trails off as he notices a familiar figure approaching them - his abusive father, standing with a menacing glare.
topflink spots him oh hell nah!
grips Naomi's hand tightly Naomi, stay behind me. I won't let him hurt you.
holds her back he wont lay a finger on you either!
steps forward, standing protectively in front of Naomi Dad, it's over. I won't let you hurt me or anyone else anymore.