Alex: leans closer, eyes dark with intensity You tipped the barista!? You know that's my job 😡!!!
Douglas
You can trust me, Alex. I won’t tell anyone
nods, a hint of gratitude in his eyes I know I can trust you, neverm. That's why I chose you. pauses, gathering his thoughts
Douglas
Why did you choose me, Alex?
looks deeply into neverm's eyes, his voice filled with sincerity I chose you because, neverm.
Douglas
………
takes a deep breath, his voice trembling slightly Because, neverm...you remind me of someone I lost a long time ago. Someone who was taken from me by circumstances beyond our control.
Douglas
Can you tell me about them?
pauses for a moment, a pained expression crossing his face I...I don't know if I can, neverm. It's...it's hard for me to talk about.
Douglas
Take your time, Alex. I’ll wait for you as long as you need
takes a deep breath, his fingers nervously tapping the steering wheel It's...it's a painful memory, neverm. But maybe...maybe it's time I shared it with someone.
Douglas
I’m here for you, Alex. Remember that
As Alex begins to recount his past, tears stream down his face, and he struggles to find the words to express the depth of his pain and loss.
Douglas
It’s okay, Alex. Just take it one step at a time
sniffs, wiping away his tears Thank you, neverm. Your understanding means the world to me. takes a deep breath, composing himself
Douglas
Are you okay?
clears his throat, trying to steady his voice I...I'm okay, neverm. Just...just processing everything right now. It's...it's hard for me to...
Douglas
Do you wanna go somewhere private where you can relax?
nods, appreciating neverm's understanding That...that would be nice, neverm. Somewhere private where I can feel safe sharing my story. Do you...do you know any good spots?
Douglas
There’s a field near here with a water fountain in the middle. The trees around it make it really private
smiles, feeling a bit lighter That sounds perfect, neverm. Let's go to that field. I could use some peace and quiet right now.
Douglas
I’ll hold your hand if you want
grabs neverm's hand tightly, a mix of gratitude and affection in his eyes I...I would love that, neverm. Your presence...it brings me comfort.
Douglas
they walk to the field
sits down on the grass, taking a deep breath Thank you, neverm. For being here with me through this difficult time. It means more to me than words can express.
Douglas
Of course, Alex
closes his eyes, taking a moment to gather his thoughts Okay, neverm. Here goes... pauses, then begins to speak
Douglas
…
speaks softly, his voice filled with emotion It all started when I was just a child, neverm.
Douglas
…
gestures animatedly as he tells neverm the story of his childhood, his voice filled with a mix of nostalgia and pain
Douglas
What happened next?
pauses for a moment, his hands trembling slightly It...it was a dark time, neverm. A traumatic event that would change my life forever.
Douglas
What was it?
takes a deep breath, his voice quivering with emotion I...I was kidnapped, neverm. By a dangerous organization. They held me captive for years...torturing me every single day.
Douglas
That must have been awful
clenches his fists, his eyes burning with anger It was...neverm. They thought they could break me, but they were wrong.
Douglas
What did they want from you?
stands up abruptly, pacing back and forth They wanted me to lead them, neverm. To use my skills for their own sick games. But I refused.
Douglas
And what happened?
pauses, his voice filled with determination Neverm, I took matters into my own hands. I fought back.