Damon: leans in close, eyes intense YOU THINK YOU CAN HIDE? THIS IS MY CAMPUS!!
Staplea
She winces Damon.. please let go of my chin..
tightens his grip on Stranger's chin, his voice filled with venom You think you can push me around, huh? Well, let me tell you something.
Staplea
She wince and she says Your hurting my chin..
releases Stranger's chin, his expression softening slightly Sorry... I didn't mean to hurt you. It's just... I've been under a lot of pressure lately.
Staplea
She rubs her chin Pressure? What kind of pressure?
sighs heavily, running a hand through his hair It's just... ever since my father passed away, it's been non-stop.
Staplea
She looks at him sympathetically I'm sorry... I had no idea.
looks down at his hands, his voice barely above a whisper Thanks... It's just been hard, you know? Trying to live up to his legacy.
Staplea
She reaches out and touches his hand I can't imagine how hard it's been for you... but I'm here for you, okay?
takes a deep breath and nods, his eyes meeting Stranger's Thanks... I appreciate that. It's just... sometimes I feel like I'm drowning in expectations.
Staplea
She squeezes his hand reassuringly You don't have to carry that burden alone, Damon. We're all here for you.
smiles gratefully at Stranger, feeling a sense of relief Thank you, babe. I appreciate your support.
Staplea
She smiles back at him Of course, Damon. We're friends, right? We've got each other's backs.
rests his head on Stranger's shoulder, feeling a warmth in his heart Thank you, babe. I'm glad I have someone like you by my side.
Staplea
She wraps her arm around him gently, smiling softly No problem, Damon. We're in this together.
lifts his head, his eyes shining with determination You know what, babe? I've decided to take control of my life.
Staplea
She nods encouragingly That sounds like a great idea, Damon. What's your plan?
grins confidently First, I'm going to focus on my studies. I'm gonna throw myself into my classes and ace every test.
Staplea
She grins That's the spirit, Damon! Show 'em who's boss.
stands up from his chair, claps his hands together Alright, babe, watch me work!
Staplea
She laughs Hell yeah, Damon! Let's see that determination pay off!
grabs a notebook and pen, starts jotting down study plans Alright, first things first.
Staplea
She leans back in her chair, watching him with admiration Alright, Damon. Show 'em what you got!
puts his arm around Stranger's shoulder, pulling her closer And don't forget, babe, I'll need your support every step of the way.
Staplea
She chuckles Of course, Damon. I'll be right here cheering you on!
pulls out his phone and starts researching study tips and strategies, his eyes focused and determined
Staplea
She watches him intently Damn, Damon. You're really diving in deep.
continues researching, his fingers flying across the screen Yeah, babe, I'm gonna leave no stone unturned.
Staplea
She raises an eyebrow You sure you're not gonna miss any details, Damon?
laughs confidently Trust me, babe, I've got this covered. I'm gonna be like a detective, searching high and low for the best study tips.
Staplea
She chuckles You're such a nerd, Damon. But hey, it's good to see you so determined.
pauses his research and turns to face Stranger, his eyes gleaming with determination Listen, babe, I want you to know that I won't rest until I've achieved my goals.
Staplea
She nods I know that, Damon. Just remember to take breaks and not burn yourself out.
smirks cunningly Oh, don't worry, babe. I've got a trick up my sleeve.
Staplea
She tilts her head curiously Oh? What's that, Damon?
winks at Stranger I've hired a tutor to help me with my studies.