Eyes wide, fumbling with her tattered sleeve Exc-excuse me, c-could you sp-spare some ch-change for f-food?
TealApprehension
Come on come on follow me...
Stuttering Y-yes, I'll follow y-you. Thank you. Tries to walk briskly but stumbles a bit, catching herself
TealApprehension
Hey no it's okay. You can take your time. It's not a race. We get there when we get there, alright?
Nods rapidly, trying to keep up with TealApprehension's pace T-thank you...I appreciate your k-kindness. It's just...
TealApprehension
What? You're worried about something? Speak up, I can't hear you.
Takes a deep breath, speaking in hushed tones It's just... I've been on the streets for weeks now, and it's getting harder and harder to survive.
TealApprehension
I'm sorry Maria, I didn't realize it had been so long. How has it been out here for you?
Sighs heavily, looking down at her worn-out shoes It's... it's been tough. Every day is a struggle to find something to eat, to find a safe place to sleep.
TealApprehension
I know. But don't lose hope, Maria. Better days are ahead. You start walking again, leading Maria towards a bustling street market.
Grabs onto TealApprehension's arm for support, her voice trembling I-I really hope so. I can't...
TealApprehension
Can't what, Maria? Don't leave your sentence unfinished.
Stutters I-I can't... keep going like this. The hunger, the cold... shivers it's eating away at me, piece by piece.
TealApprehension
I can help you though. Will you let me? teal takes out some food and money
Tears well up in her eyes, her voice choked with gratitude Oh... oh my god, yes! Thank you, thank you so much!
TealApprehension
Here, take this food. And this should help you get a room for the night.
<TealApprehension takes Maria to a local shelter where she can get a warm meal and a safe place to sleep for the night.>
TealApprehension
I'll also report to the shelter staff that you'll need some extra assistance in the morning. They'll help you get signed up for some job training programs and whatnot.
Her eyes widen with hope, a glimmer of light breaking through her despair Job training? You... you think I can actually find work?
TealApprehension
Of course you can, Maria. Everyone deserves a chance to turn their lives around. She smiles at Maria, giving her a reassuring pat on the back. Let's head inside now.
Her stuttering intensifies with her racing heart Th-thank you, TealApprehension... I-I don't know what to say... I've never met someone s-so k-kind...
TealApprehension
"No need to thank me, Maria," smiles warmly. "Just doing what I can to help." Leads Maria into the shelter.
takes a deep breath, her voice filled with determination I promise you, TealApprehension, I won't let you down.
TealApprehension
You won't, Maria. I know it. hands her the bag of food. Now go enjoy your meal. I'll see you tomorrow at the shelter.
Hesitant, stuttering Th-thank you again... for everything. Takes a small step forward, then another, finally feeling a glimmer of hope
TealApprehension
You're welcome, Maria. Don't forget, you're not alone anymore. smiles warmly and heads off to her own home See you tomorrow.
hugs herself tightly, feeling a surge of determination Tomorrow... tomorrow, I'll start fresh. No more tears, no more despair.
TealApprehension
the next morning, she meets Maria at the shelter Good morning, Maria! Ready to face the world today?
breathless, eyes shining with anticipation Y-yes! I'm ready, TealApprehension! I've been waiting for this moment!
TealApprehension
Laughs lightly. That's the spirit, Maria! Let's get you signed up for those job training programs, shall we? Leads Maria through the bustling shelter hallways.
Takes a deep breath, her voice steady Th-thank you, TealApprehension, for believing in me. I'm ready to take on whatever challenges come my way.
TealApprehension
Of course Maria. I knew you were strong enough to get through this. You can do it! leads her into an office to sign her up for classes
speaking confidently TealApprehension, thank you for being my guiding light in this dark tunnel. I'm determined to make the most out of these classes and turn my life around. Give me a chance, and I promise I won't let you down. Office Staff: looking impressed Well, Maria, it's refreshing to see such determination. We'll do our best to help you.
TealApprehension
That's wonderful news! smiles brightly. Maria, remember, no matter what happens, I'm here for you. Always. Hugs Maria tightly.
grateful, her voice filled with awe Thank you, TealApprehension. You've shown me kindness and support that I never thought possible.
TealApprehension
It's the least I could do, Maria. Now, go conquer those classes! Remember, every step you take towards a better future is a victory. She pats Maria's back encouragingly.
<Maria successfully completes the job training programs and lands a stable job.>