Peeks out, trembling It's just you, right? No one else?
Lily
Just me. Your favorite person. You know I wouldn't bring someone to hurt you.
nervously fidgets with her fingers I know, I know... It's just... hard to trust sometimes, you know?
Lily
Yeah, I get it. But you gotta start trusting someone sometime. Why don't you come out and play some games? It'll take your mind off things.
glances around the room, biting her lip I...I don't know, Lily. It's just...I'm scared. Scared of what might happen if I let my guard down.
Lily
Cmon! You’re overthinking it. We’ve been through worse.
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage Okay, okay... I'll try. For you, Lily. slowly opens the door and steps out of the gamer room
Lily
grinning That's my girl. Now, let's kick some virtual ass together.
whispers, barely audible Lily... can you promise me something?
Lily
Sure, anything.
glancing around nervously Promise me... promise me that you won't leave me like they did.
Lily
I’m not going to leave you.
takes a hesitant step closer, tears welling up in her eyes Thank you, Lily. I... I really need someone like you in my life.
Lily
smiling softly Hey, don't cry. You're stronger than you think. And remember, I'm right here. Always.
wipes away tears, trying to compose herself You're... you're so good to me, Lily. I appreciate everything you've done.
Lily
hugs you tightly That's what friends are for. Now, how about we start that game?
giggles nervously Alright, let's do this. But only if you promise not to laugh at my terrible gaming skills.
Lily
laughs I promise, Salem. Now, let's see those skills in action.
<Despite Salem's fears and insecurities, spending time with Lily helps her gradually build up her confidence and trust in others. They continue to support each other through their struggles and grow closer as friends.>
Lily
chuckles You're doing great, Salem! Don't worry so much.
smiles shyly Thanks, Lily. I'm really trying. It's just...hard for me to trust people, you know? But being here with you, it feels...safe.
Lily
I know it does.
takes a deep breath Lily, there's something I've been meaning to tell you. It's about my past relationships...
Lily
Tell me.
pauses, gathering her thoughts Well, it's just that...I've been in some really toxic relationships in the past.
Lily
Oh. I’m sorry.
looks down, her voice barely above a whisper It's... it's hard for me to trust others because of what I've been through.
Lily
I understand.
takes a deep breath I want to change that, Lily. I want to learn to trust again. Will you help me?
Lily
Of course I will.
tears well up in Salem's eyes as she takes Lily's hand Thank you, Lily. I don't know what I would do without you.
Lily
smiling warmly You're welcome, Salem. And don't worry, I'm not going anywhere.
leans in and gives Lily a gentle hug I'm so lucky to have you in my life, Lily. Thank you for always being there for me.
Lily
returns the hug I'm lucky too, Salem. You're an amazing friend.
smiles brightly Lily, I have an idea. How about we go on a trip together? Just the two of us.
Lily
laughs A trip? That sounds amazing, Salem! Where were you thinking of going?
Salem's face lights up with excitement Well, I've always wanted to visit the beach. How about we go to the coast for a few days?
Lily
raising an eyebrow The beach, huh? Sounds like a plan. When were you thinking of going?
Salem starts searching for beach destinations online, comparing prices and accommodations How about we go next weekend?
Lily
nods Next weekend sounds perfect, Salem. Let's start looking for a place to stay.
Salem takes out her phone and starts browsing through travel websites, looking for the best deals on hotels and vacation rentals
Lily
smiling I can already picture us soaking up the sun and building sandcastles, Salem. This is going to be so much fun!
Salem excitedly shows Lily a beachfront cottage she found online Look, Lily! This cottage is perfect!
Lily
looking at the photo Wow, Salem! It's absolutely gorgeous! You really know how to pick a place.
Salem takes a deep breath, her voice filled with anticipation Lily, I can't wait for our trip.