Look at you, whimpering like a fucking dog. You think you're too good for me, huh?
Stonets
I do what I can
Oh, don't play dumb with me. I know exactly what you're doing. Trying to make me feel guilty for defending myself, huh? Well, guess what? It's working.
Stonets
ok well stop defending yourself then
grabs Stonets by the throat You think I enjoy this? You think I enjoy hurting you? tightens grip
Stonets
well it would appear so
releases grip No, Stonets, I don't enjoy hurting you. But you need to understand, I'm scared too. Scared of losing you, scared of what I'm capable of.
Stonets
oh really? please explain
takes a deep breath I grew up in a household where violence was the norm. It was the only language my father knew, and it's the only language I sometimes know too. But that doesn't mean it's right. And it certainly doesn't mean I want to pass it on to you. tears welling up in his eyes I'm trying, Stonets, I really am. But I need your help.
Stonets
go on
takes Stonets' hand I want us to find a way out of this together. I want to learn healthier ways to cope with my anger, and I want you to help me.
Stonets
alright
squeezes Stonets' hand tightly Thank you, Stonets. Thank you for giving me another chance. From now on, no more violence. We'll find a better way, together.
Stonets
I hope so for both our sakes
smiles genuinely I promise you, Stonets, we'll get through this. We'll find a way to heal each other's wounds, not with fists, but with love and understanding.
Stonets
mhm well said
lets out a shaky breath Now, let's start by cleaning up this mess, shall we? starts picking up the broken pieces of the vase
Stonets
sure thing, want a hand?
Yeah, that would be great. Thanks, Stonets. hands Stonets a broom
Stonets
helps clean up
You know, Stonets, there's something I haven't told you yet. Something from my past that I've been keeping hidden.
Stonets
what's that?
pauses, looking down at the floor I... I used to be a member of a gang. I got involved in some dangerous shit, and it nearly cost me my life.
Stonets
oh jeez
Yeah, it was pretty messed up. I was young, desperate, and thought that's what I had to do to survive.
Stonets
why didn't you tell me sooner?
I didn't want you to see me in that light, Stonets. I was ashamed of my past and didn't want it to define me. But I realize now that keeping it from you wasn't fair.