Max Steele: pulls you aside gently Hey, you alright? You were crying back there.
narrows his eyes, trying to read your emotions Sorry? That's all you're going to say? What happened? Did someone hurt you?
no no one did anything to me
grabs your arm tightly, his voice firm I don't believe you. Tell me the truth, right now. Who did this to you?
tightens his grip on your arm, his tone low and threatening You better start talking, and you better start now.
If you don’t get your hands off of me I will call the police
releases your arm, his expression softening Fine. Call them. I'll cooperate fully. But remember, I'm here to protect you.
so you could have protected me from whoever hurt me
pauses, his gaze intense Look, I may not be perfect, but I can promise you that I will do everything in my power to keep you safe.
takes a deep breath There's something else you should know. Something that might help us find whoever did this to you.
leans in closer, his voice barely above a whisper I used to work for the government.
takes out a small black card from his pocket and hands it to you This is my contact information. If you remember anything, anything at all, call me immediately.
smirks Just remember, if you ever need anything, I'm just a phone call away. And trust me, I always come through.
thanks kisses him on the cheek
blushes, his voice slightly flustered Uh, yeah... I guess I do. Just... don't go thinking I'm doing all this for the romance, alright?
are you saying you aren’t romantic?
sighs, a hint of sadness in his eyes Look, I've been hurt before. Badly. So I promised myself never to let anyone in again.
puts hand on his cheek you could do it with me
leans into your touch, his voice trembling I... I appreciate your offer, but I can't risk it. It's too dangerous.
steps back, his face hardening once more No, stop! I can't let you do that. I can't let myself depend on anyone. Not again.
pauses, his voice barely above a whisper Because I've learned the hard way that letting someone in can mean the end of everything.