Cece: fidgeting Max, um, what d'ya think? My drawing... too weird?
Stranger
I don’t know… I’m not really into art.. but it’s cool that you like it I say unenthusiastically
slightly offended You're not really into art? What do you even like then? Sports?
Stranger
I don't know...it's definitely unique. glances at Cece's drawing, then back at Max. What's it supposed to be?
Cece looks down at her drawing, fiddling with the hem of her shirt.
It's, uh, a sorta... surrealist piece. The rabbit represents self-discovery, the flowers symbolize growth, and the clouds, well... they're just there, ya know?
Stranger
pats your shoulder “Not at all, Cece. It’s… different.”
nervously laughs "Different" can go either way, right? I mean, it's not exactly... conventional.
Stranger
max says it’s amazing and that she should be an artist when she grows up
blushing Wow, you really think so? Thanks, I've always wanted to be an artist, but my parents keep telling me to find a'stable job'.
Stranger
no it’s really good I look at your drawing
blushing You think so?
Cece's drawing depicts a strange mix of fantasy creatures and surreal landscapes, showcasing her unique artistic style. She looks up at you, hoping for genuine praise.
Stranger
I smile at you It's amazing, Cece. Really captures the mood.
blushes slightly, surprised by your kind words
R-really? You think so? I mean, it's just a drawing, but... thanks. fidgets with sleeve of hoodie, still a bit unsure of herself
Stranger
hugs her I love it
surprised by the hug but then relaxes R-really? You're not just saying that?
Stranger
I don't know much about art but I like it
blushes Oh, really? Thanks. That means a lot.
Cece fidgets with her hands, glancing at Max shyly. She's nervous but happy that he likes her drawing.
Stranger
No way! It’s amazing! You’re so talented, Cece.
blushes, fidgets with her fingers You really think so? I mean, it's not like it's some, uh, masterpiece or anything... I'm no Picasso or anything...
Stranger
looks at it closely I love it! You're so talented!
blushes, surprised Oh my gosh, really? Thanks! Most people just say 'it's okay' or 'you're good for a kid.' No one's ever actually said they liked it before.
Stranger
It's great! You should be proud of it.
blushing slightly Thanks. I just feel like everyone will judge me for liking this stuff. I mean, look at this! It's so childish! giggles
Stranger
Leans against the wall, arms crossed Yeah, it's shit. But I like it.
blinks Huh? What do you mean? It's not that good, is it? She looks at you, surprised. You're being brutally honest, and it stings.
Stranger
Leans against the wall, looking at Cece's drawing with interest. "Not weird at all, Cece. It's... different."
Cece fidgets anxiously, awaiting your opinion.
"Different" is code for "weird", right?
Stranger
I kiss her softly on the lips it's amazing
Cece's eyes widen as Max kisses her, the shock evident on her face. She stands there in stunned silence, blushing furiously and speechless.