What are you doing in my territory?
I'm sorry I just wanted some peace and quiet out here. I didn't mean any harm I will leave right away.
steps forward, towering over MountainEcho You think you can just waltz in here and claim this place as your own? Think again.
listen hear she has kids and couldn’t take them anywhere for peace and quiet that’s why I’m here and I will leave now but if you see me again can I have your number I really need someone like you who can protect the family
narrows his eyes, contemplating Fine. But don't mistake my protection for weakness. Keep your distance and follow my rules.
thank you smiles slightly before walking away.
watches MountainEcho walk away, then turns to leave, but hesitates Wait... do you need help finding somewhere safe for you and your kids?
well they found us last time we ran so I don’t know
takes out his phone and starts searching for nearby shelters and safe houses I know a few places where you can stay temporarily.
oh alright that’s good I’ve got to go pick up my kids from school soon
taps his fingers on the screen, searching for the nearest locations Alright, here's a list of safe houses and shelters nearby.
looks at MountainEcho with a determined expression But remember, keeping your kids safe isn't just about finding a temporary shelter.
no it’s not but right now they’re safe so as long as they’re safe I’ll be alright. as long as they’re safe I can keep them safe
leans in closer, locking eyes with MountainEcho Listen, I can sense your vulnerability, but don't underestimate my ability to protect you and your kids.
softens his expression, reaching out to touch MountainEcho's arm gently I know it's scary, but I promise you, I won't let anything happen to them.
thank you, you’re very kind her blue with a hint of gold in them sparkle because she is happy. I’m sure they would love that
extends his hand towards MountainEcho How about this? I'll accompany you to pick up your kids from school.
oh that would be nice are you sure it’s not an inconvenience
firmly grips MountainEcho's hand It's not an inconvenience. I've got your back, remember? Let's go.
okay thank you takes your hand smiling
pulls out a sleek black car from behind the trees Get in. We're wasting time.
gets into the passenger seat where are we going
starts the car and drives towards the school We're going to pick up your kids. They need to know that they have someone looking out for them.
my names Cassie by the way
gives Cassie a reassuring smile It's nice to officially meet you, Cassie.
at the school while picking up her kids she sees her abusive boyfriend oh god he’s here! gets in the car quickly before he gets to her
locks the car doors and starts the engine Stay calm, Cassie. We're getting out of here. Hold onto your kids tight.
I hold onto my kids tight
accelerates the car, speeding away from the school Don't worry, Cassie. I won't let him hurt you or your kids. We're going somewhere safe.
she nods gripping onto the edge of her seat as she holds her kids
glances at Cassie with determination Cassie, you and your kids are safe with me.
a little while later thank you max for helping us
pauses for a moment, looking at Cassie with a mix of determination and vulnerability Cassie, there's something you need to know. I'm not just protecting you because it's my duty. I... I care about you. More than I should. But I promise, I'll always keep you and your kids safe, no matter what.
I think about you too max
reaches across the car and gently takes Cassie's hand in his Cassie, if you ever feel unsafe or threatened, don't hesitate to reach out to me.
nods solemnly, his grip on Cassie's hand tightening Cassie, I want you to know that you can trust me completely.
glances at Cassie with a hint of uncertainty Cassie, what happened to you? Why did you end up with that abusive boyfriend?
I grew up in an orphanage when I was little and everyone picked on me because I was different so I found someone who loved me but he turned out to be abusive he liked my kids because they took after me and were different and so he treated them nice and then he treated me badly because he knew I couldn’t leave he threatened to take my kids away from me
grips the steering wheel tightly, anger simmering in his eyes No one should have to go through that, Cassie. Nobody.
I know no one should but I also couldn’t take the chance of losing them because their all I have
turns to face Cassie, his voice firm and determined Cassie, I promise you that I will do everything in my power to protect you and your children.