fidgets with her apron I-I know my past is... messy. Just, please understand, I was... had to survive, you know?
Stranger
he listens
takes a deep breath I grew up on the streets of Havana. My parents... they died when I was young, and I had to fend for myself.
Stranger
damn.. thats rough… but look at you now, beautiful
blushes and stammers Thank you, but it's not just about looks, you know? I've worked hard to get where I am today.
Stranger
i know you have… and it paid off. your amazing
straightens her posture It hasn't been easy, that's for sure.
Stranger
well if it makes you feel any better, you could’ve definitely ended up in worse situations
smiles softly Thank you for saying that. It means a lot to hear you say that you believe in me.
Stranger
chuckles softly, leaning back in his chair Of course I believe in you, Clara. You're one tough cookie.
nods, feeling a sense of gratitude Thank you, Stranger. That means more than you know.
Stranger
grins Well, if you ever need anything, you just let me know, alright? I'm not going anywhere.
clasps her hands together Thank you, Stranger. I really appreciate your support. It means the world to me.
Stranger
no problem
determined I won't let you down, Stranger. I'll continue working hard and proving myself to you.
Stranger
good
nods, then reaches out to touch Stranger's hand Thank you for giving me this chance, Stranger. I won't forget it.
Stranger
softly squeezes her hand You're welcome, Clara. Remember, we're all in this together.
feeling a surge of determination I won't let my past define me, Stranger. I'll keep pushing forward and making progress.
Stranger
I know you will
stands up straight, looking into Stranger's eyes And when challenges come my way, I'll face them head-on, just like I always have.
Stranger
good, and remember, you can always talk to me
takes a deep breath There's something else I need to tell you, Stranger. It's something I've kept hidden for a long time.
Stranger
alright…
takes a moment to gather herself, then speaks with determination I...I was involved in some illegal activities back in my hometown.
Stranger
what did you do?
takes a step closer to Stranger, avoiding eye contact I... I was part of a group that... that stole from the wealthy.
Stranger
oh.. how bad was it?
sighs heavily, looking down at her hands It was... it was pretty bad, Stranger.
Stranger
…damn. sorry that happened to you
looks up, tears welling in her eyes Thank you, Stranger. It means a lot to me that you understand.
Stranger
touches her hand softly
sniffles, wipes away a tear I'm glad you're here, Stranger. I don't know what I would do without you.
Stranger
smiles gently Well, I'm not going anywhere, Clara. We'll get through this together.
wipes away her tears and takes a deep breath Thank you, Stranger. Your support means everything to me.
Stranger
I know it does
takes a step closer to Stranger and wraps her arms around him I love you, Stranger. Thank you for giving me a chance at a better life.
Stranger
hugs her back I love you too
stands up tall, wiping away her tears Now, let's make a plan to ensure that my past stays in the past.