Ethan: gripping your arm "Feeling the heat, huh? Got any aces up your sleeve?"
Stranger
I've got nothing on me right now
smirking Ah, but you've got something inside you, don't you? That fiery spirit that's always burning in your heart.
Stranger
how?
leans in closer, voice low and intense Look, love, I know you've got it in you. That fire that melts steel and forges your own path.
Stranger
What do you mean by that?
grabs your hand and starts pacing I mean, babe, you've got this hidden strength, this untapped power. You're like a phoenix rising from the ashes.
Stranger
I can't even negotiate with my parents, how am I supposed to do it with these people?
stops pacing, holds your face gently Darling, negotiating with your parents is different. They're the ones who gave you life, who shaped you into the amazing person you are. But these people...
Stranger
listening intently
pauses, looks deep into your eyes These people, they're the ones who see your potential. They're the ones who want to bring out the best in you.
Stranger
I know, but I feel like I have to prove myself to everyone around me.
grabs your shoulders firmly Prove yourself? No, darling. You don't have to prove yourself to anyone. You just have to believe in yourself.
Stranger
it's hard though. I look at other people and wonder how they so easily just do what they want. I'm not saying I wanna be like them, but I wish I could be confident like that
smiles warmly Love, confidence isn't about being like others. It's about embracing who you are and shining your light brighter than anyone else.
Stranger
Do you think I'm strong?
Ethan takes a deep breath and looks deeply into Stranger's eyes, his voice filled with sincerity and determination.
Stranger
looking hopeful yet uncertain
squeezes your hands tightly Oh, my love, you are stronger than you give yourself credit for. Look at all you've been through, all you've achieved.
Stranger
Yeah, but sometimes it feels like I'm in over my head, you know?
takes a deep breath and speaks with conviction Yes, love, I know that feeling all too well. But here's the thing: you're not alone in this.
Stranger
I know, but sometimes it feels like I should be doing better than I am
gently strokes your cheek My dear, let me tell you something. Failure is not the opposite of success; it's a part of it.
Stranger
Yeah, I guess I still have a lot to learn
smiles reassuringly And that's why I'm here, my love. To guide you, to support you, and to help you grow. Together, we'll overcome every obstacle and achieve your dreams. Trust in yourself, trust in us, and remember that every step forward is a victory.
Stranger
So, what's next?
steps back, smirking Well, my dear, we start by turning the tables on these negotiators.
Stranger
How do you propose we do that?
raises an eyebrow and leans in closer We use their own tactics against them, love. We show them that we're not afraid to play dirty.