steps in front, shaky voice Not cool, dude. Back off.
sorry he’s never seen someone beggin taller than him before so it’s intimidating for him i laugh slightly
backs away slightly, still trembling Look, I don't want any trouble. Just leave us alone, okay?
it’s fine i’ll take care of it i walk past him and stand in between him and the bully
puts a hand on Stranger's arm Thank you... for standing up for me. I... I appreciate it more than you know.
takes a deep breath, looks down at the ground You know, sometimes I feel like such a wimp. I mean, look at me.
don’t say that! i say softly you’re not a wimp
looks up at Stranger, tears welling in their eyes Thank you... for seeing something in me that I can't see in myself. It means a lot to me.
takes a hesitant step forward, wiping away a tear What is it?
sniffles and hugs Stranger tightly Thank you for being there for me. It feels really good to have someone who cares about me.
do you have anyone who cares about you at home?
pauses for a moment, looking down No... I don't really have anyone. It's just me and my cat, Mr. Whiskers. He's all I have...
oh…well i can be there for you.
hesitates for a moment, then nods Thank you... That would mean a lot to me.
takes out a piece of paper and pen Hey, would you mind helping me write a letter to my parents? I want to tell them how I'm feeling...
starts writing the letter, occasionally looking up at Stranger for guidance and support Thank you for doing this with me.
takes a deep breath, reads over the letter one last time, then seals it in an envelope There... It's done.
looks around nervously Are you sure about this? Sending a letter like that... It could change everything.
takes a deep breath, straightens their back, and looks determined I've thought about it long enough. It's time to face the truth.