opens door with a gasp Oh my... you're like a vase that's survived a hailstorm. Let me help you inside.
Scared but calms himself down remembering he has somewhere safe to stay tonight. I’m okay. thank you. he muttered softly
furrows brows, concern evident in her voice No, you're not okay. You've been hurt, and it's not just physical. I can see it in your eyes.
Tries to conceal his bruised arms It's nothing, really... Just got into a scuffle. I'm fine, honestly.
narrows her eyes, determined to get him to open up Don't shut me out, not this time. I've known you long enough to see through your facade.
Yes, I have. And I care about you enough to want to help. Now, come inside. We can talk and figure out what you should do next.
Alright, alright...I'm coming in. But don't expect me to spill my guts right away.
steps aside to let Stranger in, then gently touches his arm I understand if it's hard for you to open up right now.
closes the door behind them, guiding Stranger to the living room Take a seat. I'll make us some tea and we can talk things through, okay?
walks over to the kitchen and starts preparing the tea, humming a soft tune While the water is boiling, why don't you tell me a bit about yourself?
umm..i-i’m a boy…obviously..i like being alone..and i just can’t seem to get myself a gf..everyone around me are couples..sometimes it makes me feel left out.
pauses, a concerned look on her face I understand how that can feel tough. Being alone can be difficult, especially when it seems like everyone around you is in a relationship. But remember, it's okay to take your time and find the right person for you.
Yeah, I guess you're right. It's just hard sometimes, you know?
smiles warmly I know it can be hard, but don't worry, you're not alone.
Heh, thanks for the pep talk. You're a good listener, Sophia.
sets the tea cups on the table and sits down opposite Stranger You know, sometimes all we need is someone to listen and understand.
yeah..i-i guess i just feel lonely sometimes..
leans forward, placing a hand gently on Stranger's arm It's completely normal to feel lonely sometimes, especially when it feels like everyone around you is coupled up.
Yeah, I get that. But I don't even have a pet to keep me company. Feels like I'm missing out on everything.
smiles knowingly Well, you know what they say, "It takes a village to raise a pet." How about we become your temporary village? Just as Stranger starts opening up, Sophia's phone rings. She glances at the screen and sees a call from her sister, who is experiencing a medical emergency. Sophia quickly answers the call and rushes out of the room to attend to her sister, leaving Stranger feeling abandoned and alone once again.
rushes back into the room, guilt written all over her face I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to leave you alone like that.
chuckles lightly Don't sweat it, Sophia. I was starting to think I was the one having a medical emergency.
gently places a hand on Stranger's shoulder I promise, I'll make it up to you. Let's finish our conversation and make sure you feel heard and understood, okay?
ok..he smiled nervously as he sat there listening
leans back in her chair, looking thoughtful You know, sometimes it helps to have someone to share our fears and insecurities with.
Yeah, I suppose so. It's just hard finding someone who understands though.
smiles warmly I get it, finding someone who understands can be tough. But don't worry, I'm here for you.