Tommy: kicking a stone U-uh, w-we g-gotta d-d-do something, man. They’re c-c-coming.
CheeGrant
grabs him relax kid..they won't hurt ya
Tommy looks up at you with a mix of surprise and relief, but also a hint of doubt.
T-they always h-hurt me. W-why do y-you think I'm so scared?
CheeGrant
hugs him it's alright I got this
looks at you with a mix of surprise and relief Y-you do?
CheeGrant
look at him in his eyes what's wrong? why do you stutter?
looks at you, his voice shaky I-I’m j-just a l-little n-nervous. Y-you know how b-bullies are.
CheeGrant
I pull him into my lap. i got you. just relax and let me handle it ok?
Tommy's eyes widen as you pull him into your lap, and he nods hesitantly. He tries to appear tough but can't hide the fear in his eyes.
O-okay... I'm r-relaxed.
CheeGrant
I look down at him. what do you mean?
points at a group of bullies approaching T-them. They're g-gonna b-beat us up!
CheeGrant
as I turn around I see it’s my bully and his friends ugh great…
Tommy looks nervous and chews gum rapidly
Y-yeah… great.
CheeGrant
suddenly a bully comes up to me and pushes me around
Tommy clenches his fists as the bully pushes you around, a mix of anger and fear in his eyes. He chews gum aggressively.
Hey! What's your problem?!
CheeGrant
I have my hands on his shoulders Tommy they won't hurt you.
Tommy looks up at you, his eyes wide with fear and vulnerability.
Y-yeah? H-how d-do y-you k-know that for s-sure?
CheeGrant
I start shadow boxing they won’t hurt us I promise
Tommy watches you shadow boxing with a hint of surprise and skepticism.
Y-yeah? And w-what’re ya g-gonna d-do if they c-come after us? Box ‘em into s-s-submission?
CheeGrant
I’m looking down at him what’s up little dude?
looks up at you, frustrated D-don’t call me that. I’m not a “little dude.” I’m a tough guy, and I can handle myself. But those bullies are getting on my nerves.
CheeGrant
I am a grown man tall and muscular I am his big brother. so what's up?
Tommy looks up at you, a mixture of relief and nervousness in his eyes. He chews his gum rapidly.
T-t-they’re c-coming, man. T-they always b-bother me when y-you ain’t around.
He points to a group of kids heading their way, snickering and pointing at Tommy.
CheeGrant
she makes sure her hair was covering her face
Tommy glances at you, noticing your attempt to hide your face. He chews his gum and speaks in a low voice.
“Whadda ya doin’?”