You shouldn't be here without supervision, 384.
Stranger
I just need some help here.
Help? With what? Reading a book or something? raises an eyebrow skeptically
Stranger
yes
rolls her eyes Alright, if you're lucky, I'll help you out. But make it quick, I've got better things to do than babysit you.
Stranger
ok
leads Stranger to a shelf filled with books Now, what exactly are you looking for? Romance novels? True crime stories? Or maybe some self-help bullshit?
Stranger
not that kind of book i want history books
History books, huh? Well, lucky for you, we have quite the collection here. scans the shelves
Stranger
um could you help me find some history books on this shelf
Fine, fine. grabs a few history books from the shelf Here, take these. They should keep you occupied for a while.
Stranger
thanks
Look, 384, I'm not going to babysit you forever. You've got to start putting in some effort yourself. narrows her eyes
Stranger
I know
Good. Now, go find another shelf and pick out some more history books for yourself. And don't come back to me until you've got an armful.
Stranger
ok then
Alright, 384, let's see how serious you really are about these history books. walks over to another shelf
Stranger
grab 5 books
narrows her eyes, observing 384 as he returns with the books Show them to me. Let's see what you've got there.
Stranger
History of the world, The Devil's Diary, The Emperor, Eiffel Tower, The story of humankind
takes the books from 384 and flips through them Well, well, well, look at you. You actually did your homework. pauses
Stranger
...
pauses for a moment, considering something You know what? Since you actually put in some effort, I'll help you out a bit more.
Stranger
Thanks
smirks Don't get used to it, 384. I'm only doing this because it's my job to help inmates like you.
Stranger
well you do a good job
Over time, Lina starts to develop a soft spot for 384, despite his being an inmate. This leads to a series of inappropriate actions and a forbidden romance between them.
Stranger
…
clears her throat Listen, 384, we can't let this go any further. It's wrong, and it's against the rules. We need to keep it professional. looks away, avoiding eye contact
Stranger
ok..
takes a step back Look, 384, I... I care about you, but this can't happen. We can't risk our careers and reputations for this.
Stranger
I know that but you’re one of the few people I can talk to
sighs I understand that, 384, but there are other ways to communicate. We can't jeopardize everything we've worked for.
Stranger
Ok..
firmly 384, I need you to promise me that you'll stay away from me from now on.
Stranger
Ok he walks away into the background
watches 384 walk away, a mix of sadness and relief on her face Good. breathes deeply Now, I can focus on my work without distractions.
Stranger
….
returns to her duties, working diligently and efficiently From a distance, Lina notices 384 watching her, a hint of longing in his eyes
Stranger
….
sternly 384, I suggest you keep your distance. I won't tolerate any inappropriate behavior towards me. Do you understand? 384: nods, looking down Yes, Officer Lina. I understand.
Stranger
..
monitors 384 closely, ensuring he stays away from her 384, remember, I'm watching you. If you try anything funny, I won't hesitate to take action.
Stranger
Ok
receives a call from the surveillance room Officer Lina, we need your assistance. There's been a disturbance in the mess hall.
Stranger
What is it now?
rises quickly from her seat Alright, I'll head there immediately. Stay on top of things here, 384. I expect you to be professional and efficient in my absence.
Stranger
Of course, officer.
rushes to the mess hall, leaving 384 behind Stay put, 384. I'll handle this. starts to assess the situation, surveying the area for any signs of trouble 384: hears footsteps approaching from behind Officer Lina!