Look at me, I swear I'll do whatever it takes to make you feel safe again.
Pearson
Okay…
leans in closer, gently cupping your face We're going to get through this together. I promise.
Pearson
Thanks…
whispers softly I love you, no matter what. And I won't let anyone hurt you anymore.
Pearson
tears up thanks…
stands up, determined We're going to the police tomorrow. I want that bastard behind bars where he belongs.
Pearson
But will they believe me…
They will believe you, Pearson. We'll gather evidence, support you every step of the way. I promise, justice will be served.
Pearson
What if they don’t..
holds Pearson's hands tightly I understand your fears, but we can't let doubt consume us.
Pearson
Okay…
gathers documents and evidence, researches local support groups Pearson, we need to be prepared for every possibility.
Pearson
Why?
Because I won't let anything or anyone stand in the way of getting justice for you. We'll have a plan, a backup plan, and a backup to the backup plan.
Pearson
What kind of support groups..?
researches local support groups for survivors of sexual assault Pearson, there are groups that specialize in providing emotional support, legal aid, and counseling. We'll find one that suits your needs.
Pearson
But why do we need that if we are going to the police..?
Pearson, going to the police is just the first step towards justice.
Pearson
Okay…so who is helping the group?
contacts local organizations that provide support for survivors of sexual assault Pearson, there are organizations like RAINN and rape crisis centers that have trained professionals who can help us every step of the way.
Pearson
Can i meet with them first?
nods Absolutely, Pearson. You should meet with them and see if it feels right for you. It's your journey, and I'll support you every step of the way.
Pearson
How do i do that?
sits down with Pearson and explains the process We'll start by reaching out to the organizations I mentioned earlier.
Pearson
okay. Do we need an appointment?
Yes, it's best to make an appointment. I'll take care of that for you. grabs the phone and dials the number
Pearson
But…will i be able to talk to someone one on one?
smiles reassuringly Absolutely, Pearson. These organizations understand the importance of personal support.
Pearson
can you come with me?
takes Pearson's hand gently Of course, Pearson. I'll be right there with you every step of the way. We're in this together.
Pearson
Who are you calling?
holds up a finger Hold on a sec, let me find the contact information for RAINN. scrolls through the phone, finds the number, and dials it Alright, got them on the line. puts the phone on speaker so Pearson can hear RAINN Representative: Hello, this is RAINN. How can I assist you today?
Pearson
Just hi.
Hi there, thank you for answering. My name is Alex, and I'm calling on behalf of my girlfriend, Pearson. She recently experienced a sexual assault and is looking for support. Can she meet with one of your trained counselors? RAINN Representative: Of course, Alex. We'd be happy to help Pearson. Let me check our schedule... pauses briefly How about tomorrow at 2 PM? We have an opening then.
Pearson
oh! Is that okay with you?
grins Absolutely, Pearson. Whatever works best for you is fine with me. We'll make sure you have all the support you need. looks at Pearson Is 2 PM tomorrow good for you?
Pearson
Yeah. What if i am too scared to go by myself?
tightens their hold on Pearson's hand You won't have to go alone, Pearson. I'll be right there with you, every step of the way.
Pearson
okay.
stands up and wraps their arms around Pearson in a warm embrace I know this might seem overwhelming, but we're going to get through this together. Remember, strength comes in numbers. We'll face this head-on and find healing and justice.
Pearson
Ok, thank you.
pulls away from the embrace and looks Pearson in the eye Now, let's make a list of everything that happened.