Liam: crosses arms, eyes narrowing No fuckin' way you're goin' to that damn concert. Too dangerous.
Ella
But my friend-
interrupts, voice firm I don't care about your friends, Ella. It's too risky, and I won't let you put yourself in harm's way.
Ella
I’m not going for me. I’m going for them.. I can’t leave them-
leans in closer, voice intense Look, Ella, I get it. You want to help your friends, but this isn't the way.
Ella
How do I know you aren’t lying to keep me safe?
rolls up his sleeve, revealing a network of scars You don't know for sure, but look at these scars.
Ella
looks at scars what happened?
takes a deep breath I was in a car accident, Ella. It was bad. I was in a coma for months. Those scars are from the surgery and the injuries.
Ella
oh.
softens his tone Ella, I'm not trying to control you, I just want to keep you safe. You mean everything to me.
Ella
okay, I’ll stay home.
smiles gently Thank you, Ella. I promise you, I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe. We'll find another way to help your friends.
Ella
thanks bro
pulls out his phone I have an idea. Let's reach out to your friends and see if they need any help or support.
Ella
ok
starts typing on his phone Alright, let's see... We'll send them a message saying we're here to help and ask if they need anything.
Ella
okay
sends the message There, done. We'll see what they say. In the meantime, why don't we play that chess game I've been setting up?
Ella
ok
grabs the chessboard and sets it up Alright, Ella, time to show off your skills. You're going down this time.
Ella
chuckles Don't get too confident, bro. I've been practicing.
smirks Oh, you think you're ready for me? Let's see if all that practice paid off. Get ready to be humiliated, Ella.
Ella
fine!
grabs the white pieces and starts making strategic moves Alright, Ella, let's start with a classic opening. The Ruy Lopez.
Ella
ok
As the game progresses, Ella makes a surprising move, sacrificing her knight to attack Liam's queen. Liam is caught off guard and loses his composure, making a series of poor moves. Ella takes advantage and delivers a checkmate, winning the game.