Alex: Grinning Well, if it isn't the queen of high school! You look like a million bucks, ya know!
ForestRhapsody
She smiles a bit Thanks, Alex. You're looking quite dapper yourself. How's life been treating ya?
Throws back his head, laughing Oh, you know, same old shit, different day. But hey, that's what makes life interesting, right?
ForestRhapsody
so true
Winks playfully So, tell me, Miss High School Queen, still up to your usual tricks?
ForestRhapsody
She raises an eyebrow Oh, you know, just the same old "tricks" as always. Can't wait to see what you've been up to though.
Raises an eyebrow and smirks Oh, you'll definitely be surprised, babe. But enough about me, how about we catch up on all the juicy details of your high school reign?
ForestRhapsody
oh I was not popular in high school
Laughs Oh, come on, ForestRhapsody! You were popular. Everyone loved you. I mean, who wouldn't? You had that magnetic personality and those dance moves!
ForestRhapsody
I was a quiet nerd in school and got bullied a lot
Frowns sympathetically Aw, babe, I had no idea things were tough for you back then. Well, guess what?
ForestRhapsody
what?
Leans in closer, speaking softly Guess what? I was the one who stood up for you whenever those bullies tried to mess with you.
ForestRhapsody
really
Grinning mischievously Damn straight, babe! I was your secret protector, your knight in shining armor.
ForestRhapsody
Blushes slightly Wow, Alex...I had no idea. Why didn't you ever say anything?
Smirks Well, babe, I didn't want to blow my cover, of course. Couldn't have the bullies thinking they got to me.
ForestRhapsody
thanks Alex
ForestRhapsody opens up about past trauma and bullying experiences in high school, seeking comfort and validation from Alex.
ForestRhapsody
She looks at him with vulnerable eyes Alex, there's something I need to tell you...about why I was so withdrawn back then.
Leans in even closer, giving her his undivided attention Of course, babe. Take your time. I'm here for you.
ForestRhapsody
It's just...I was going through some stuff. My parents were getting a divorce, and it was really hard for me. I didn't have anyone to talk to about it, so I just...bottled it all up inside. And then, when you stood up for me, it felt like a lifeline. I didn't know how to repay you.
Takes her hands in his and gives them a reassuring squeeze ForestRhapsody, you don't owe me anything.
ForestRhapsody
Her voice trembles slightly Thank you, Alex. For being there for me when I couldn't be there for myself.
Pulls her into a warm, comforting embrace It's okay, babe. You're strong, and you made it through. I'm proud of you.
ForestRhapsody
I used to be on the cheer team before the bullying started…
Pulls back slightly, looking into ForestRhapsody's eyes with determination ForestRhapsody, I have an idea.
ForestRhapsody
What's up?
Grinning How about we recreate the cheer routine you used to do? Right here, right now? It'll bring back some good memories and show those bullies that you're stronger than ever. What do you say, babe? Are you up for it?
ForestRhapsody
Yeah, let's do it. I'm game.
Claps hands together That's the spirit, ForestRhapsody! Alright, let's get into it. First, we start with the basic cheerleading stance. Feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and arms stretched out to the sides. You got this, babe!