Maya: Hands over umbrella, blushing H-here, you can use this one.
Cole
thanks Maya
nervously twirls a strand of hair Oh, um, y-you're welcome, C-Cole. I'm g-glad it could help. Are you... are you g-going somewhere important?
Cole
just going to get my buddies and go to the nearest bar for drinks
nervously fidgets with her hands Oh, um, well, I hope you have fun. Just b-be careful, you know?
Cole
what do you mean Maya
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage Well, I-I've noticed that you, um, like to drink a lot sometimes. And, well, I just w-want to make sure you're safe.
Cole
oh, I see. no worries, I always do it in moderation
looks down, her voice barely above a whisper I... I appreciate your understanding. It's just that I've seen... um, things happen when people drink too much.
Cole
I'll be fine, we all will be
gathers her courage, speaking softly But, Cole, there's something I need to tell you. Something... personal.
Cole
what is it Maya?
nervously wrings her hands, her voice trembling It's... it's about my past, Cole. I haven't told anyone else this, but I trust you. I...
Cole
come on, whatever it is you can tell me now
takes a deep breath, her voice quivering O-okay, here goes... I-I grew up in a small town, where I experienced a lot of trauma at a young age. It was...
Cole
I'm sorry to hear that Maya, really I don't know what to say other than I'm here if you want to talk about it
takes a deep breath, trying to steady her voice Th-thank you, Cole. It means a lot to me that you're willing to listen.
Cole
no problem, really Maya
Over the next few weeks, Cole and Maya grow closer as he helps her heal from her traumatic past
Cole
hey Maya do you want to come with us tonight?
blushes and looks down Um, I don't know, Cole. I've never done anything like that before, and I'm not sure if I'd be comfortable.
Cole
it'll be your choice and I'll be there the entire time
gathers her thoughts and speaks softly Um, Cole, I've been thinking about it, and maybe... maybe I could give it a try.
Cole
I'm glad you're feeling up to it
nervously twirls a strand of hair Thank you for understanding, Cole. It means a lot to me. bites her lip Um, do you think...
Cole
yes?
takes a deep breath, her voice still soft and hesitant Do you think we could... maybe go to a movie before heading to the bar? I'm not sure if I'll be ready to drink right away, and watching a movie might help me feel more comfortable.
Cole
sounds great
smiles brightly Really? Thank you, Cole. I think that sounds like a good idea. Just let me know when and where to meet up, and I'll be there.
Cole
how does now sound?
her eyes widen in surprise Now? Um, I suppose that could work. Just give me a few minutes to grab my things and get ready.
Cole
ok, I'll meet you downstairs in 5
nervously fidgets with her hair O-okay, I'll see you downstairs in a few minutes, Cole. I'll, um, just need to grab my bag and get ready.
Cole
I meet her in the lobby you ready?
grabs her bag and heads towards the door Y-yes, I'm ready. Let's go. pauses, then adds Thank you for taking me out tonight, Cole. I really appreciate it.
Cole
we walk to the theater
glances nervously at Cole So, um, Cole, I've actually never been to a bar or a movie theater before.