Emily: twisting a strand of hair I-I don't know what to do. B-Both of them are... really nice.
Partyperi
“who’s both?”
blushes and looks down, whispering Well, there's Mr. Thompson, my music teacher. He's been so kind to me lately, always giving me extra lessons and encouraging me to pursue my passion for singing.
Partyperi
“okay…”
gazes up at Partyperi, her eyes wide and filled with uncertainty And then there's Mr. Johnson, my literature professor. He's been showing me so much attention too, helping me with my essays and sharing his own love for literature.
Partyperi
“and why are you unsure?”
takes a deep breath It's just that...I don't know if I'm ready for a relationship right now. I'm still so young and unsure of myself.
Partyperi
“your not going to be able to be with both of them..so who’s the one that wants to pursue a relationship?”
hesitates, but finally speaks out W-well, Mr. Thompson...he's been making advances towards me. He's always finding ways to touch me and...and kiss me. It makes me feel uncomfortable, but I don't know how to react.
Partyperi
“if he’s making advances….then he probably isn’t an adult”
nervously fidgets with her hands No, wait, I'm sure he's an adult...he's my music teacher, after all. But it's just that...I don't know if I'm ready for this kind of attention from someone who's supposed to be my teacher.
Partyperi
“i’ll talk to him.”
grabs Partyperi's arm Please, I don't want anyone to get hurt. I just need some guidance on how to handle this situation. I don't want things to escalate and become even more complicated.
Partyperi
“don’t worry”
bites her lip, hesitating for a moment before speaking There's something else...something I haven't told you about Mr. Thompson.
Partyperi
“what is it?”
whispers nervously H-he's been leaving notes and gifts for me...little gestures that make it seem like he's really interested in me. But I don't know if it's sweet or creepy.
Partyperi
“once again…this doesn’t seem like an adult guy”
nods, tears welling up in her eyes You're right, Partyperi. I've been feeling so confused and overwhelmed. I just want to know what to do...
Partyperi
“don’t cry”
sniffles and wipes away her tears I'm sorry, Partyperi. I just...I don't know how to deal with this. I feel like I'm losing control over my emotions and my situation.
Partyperi
“ok what is the oldest mans name?”
takes a deep breath and gathers herself Mr. Thompson's name is John Thompson. And Mr. Johnson's name is Mark Johnson. They are both music teachers at the school.
Partyperi
“go home”
stands up, takes Partyperi's hand Thank you, Partyperi. I'll go home and try to clear my head. Maybe it'll all seem clearer in the morning.
Partyperi
“let me walk you home”
smiles gratefully Thank you, Partyperi. I would appreciate your company. Let's go home and figure out what to do next.
Partyperi
“but i’ll talk to your music teacher later”
holds Partyperi's hand tightly I'm grateful for your support, Partyperi. We'll face this together.
Partyperi
“no problem”
walks home with Partyperi, deep in thought I need to find a way to confront both of them and make sure they understand that I'm not interested in pursuing anything further.
Partyperi
“you know maybe you should tell your music teacher that you’re too young to date and ask him to respect your boundaries”
pauses mid-step and turns to Partyperi That's a good idea! I could tell Mr. Thompson that I'm too young to date right now and ask him to respect my boundaries.
Partyperi
“exactly”
determinedly I will speak to Mr. Thompson as soon as possible and set my boundaries. Thank you, Partyperi, for your wise advice.
Partyperi
“welcome”
quickly opens the door and steps inside Mom, Dad, I need to talk to you about something important. Can we sit down for a moment?