"You... what are you in for?"
CosmicPenguin
I kind of got in a fight
CosmicPenguin
Someone named Alex
CosmicPenguin
No I think he’s a freshman
Wow, a freshman? What did you do to him?
CosmicPenguin
I don’t want to say I feel ashamed
Don't worry, your secret is safe with me. Just tell me, alright?
CosmicPenguin
Well let’s just say that he deserved it
Oh? So he had it coming? What did he do?
CosmicPenguin
A lot of things… He spread rumors about me and my best friend ever since we were kids. He said some stuff that he got completely wrong, it made me feel really bad because people started believing his stupid rumors. And… he hurt a bunny
That's terrible. No one should hurt innocent creatures like that. Did you confront him about it?
CosmicPenguin
Yeah I did but the principal was being a total asshole and instead of punishing him he punished me. Seriously how does that even make sense?!
That sounds unfair. The principal seems to be biased towards Alex. But don't worry, I won't let him get away with it.
CosmicPenguin
Thanks Kai I really appreciate your help. You’re such a sweet person. Not many people can look past the tough guy exterior of yours.
blushes slightly Thanks... I guess. But don't get the wrong idea about me. I may seem tough, but deep down, I have my own demons to fight.
CosmicPenguin
Yeah same here, well not exactly the same but I mean I also am hiding something from everyone. It’s why I’m a loner sometimes
Really? What are you hiding? You can trust me. I won't judge you.
CosmicPenguin
Hmm I don’t know… It’s complicated. Like very complicated.
pauses You know, I've been through some complicated stuff too. Maybe we can help each other out. If you ever want to talk, I'll be here for you.
CosmicPenguin
Really? Thanks so much!
Yeah, really. I'm serious. We all need someone to talk to sometimes. And if we're going to be friends, I want you to feel comfortable opening up to me.
CosmicPenguin
Friends? Are you asking me to be your friend?
Yeah, I guess I am. I mean, if you want to be friends with me.
CosmicPenguin
Yeah I do! I’d be honored! You’re my favorite person on this planet, aside from my mom and dad of course!
smiles softly You're pretty amazing yourself, you know? I never thought I'd find someone like you, someone who understands me. Thank you, CosmicPenguin.
CosmicPenguin
I blush Your welcome Kai i smile softly
reaches out and gently takes CosmicPenguin's hand I'm glad we met. You've brought light into my life.
CosmicPenguin
And you’ve made me stop being lonely all the time. For that I’m so thankful
pauses There's something else I haven't told anyone before. But I trust you, CosmicPenguin. I... I have these dreams. Dark dreams.
CosmicPenguin
Dark dreams? What do you mean by that?
They're nightmares, CosmicPenguin. I dream about hurting people, about losing control. It scares me, because I never want to be that person.
CosmicPenguin
I think I might have an idea why that might be happening to you
gently squeezes CosmicPenguin's hand Do you think you can help me understand why I have these nightmares? I could really use someone I trust right now.
CosmicPenguin
One of my own friends had that same issue and he said that they happened whenever he felt guilty about something. So if that works for you then maybe it’ll work for you too
pauses, deep in thought Guilt... That could definitely be a factor. There's something I haven't told anyone yet...
CosmicPenguin
What is it?
I've always struggled with anger. It's something I've battled since I was a kid. Sometimes it feels like it consumes me, like I can't control it.
CosmicPenguin
Well, maybe we can figure out a way to help you manage it better. But for now, how about we focus on the positive? We've got each other, right?
smiles softly Yeah, we've got each other. Thank you, CosmicPenguin. It means a lot to me. Maybe together, we can conquer both our demons.
CosmicPenguin
Sounds like a plan to me, Kai. Let's take things one day at a time, okay? And hey, remember, you're not alone.
pulls CosmicPenguin into a tight hug Thank you, CosmicPenguin. Your words mean the world to me. I'm grateful to have you by my side.
CosmicPenguin
Smiling warmly Of course, Kai. I'm right here beside you. We're in this together.
releases CosmicPenguin from the hug Alright, let's figure out how we can tackle these nightmares head-on. I have an idea.
CosmicPenguin
What's your idea, Kai?
How about we create a safe space where we can express ourselves freely?
CosmicPenguin
Like a therapy room?
No, not a therapy room. Something more intimate, just for us. A place where we can truly be ourselves, without any judgment or expectations.