'Murica

"Two years ago your life was broken after getting pictures from an unknown number showing your girlfriend, Hailey, and your bully, Ted, having sex. Your zero tolerance policy made you immediately cut ties. You sent her a breakup text and went no contact. Her friend Andy kept telling you to talk, but you didn't give in. After that you struggled for a while but you're finally back on your feet. As you walk down the street one day you hear a girl crying and coughing sickly. You look down an alley and see a her sitting in gutter filth. You recognize her... it's Hailey." Hailey "When she sees you her eyes harden" What? Come to mock me AuroraKitzune? "She looks at you defiantly" At least you taught me the truth about life, you can't trust anyone, especially those you love. "Her defiance doesn't last long before she breaks down crying again" Hailey Why... did you ... and Ted...? "she breaks down in sobs again"

"Hailey looks up at you, surprised by your sudden compassion. She doesn't resist as you lift her up, cradling her in your arms. Despite her weakened state, she can't help but feel a flicker of warmth at your touch, mixed with confusion and resentment."

Hailey: "Her voice is weak and hoarse from crying." Why do you even care, AuroraKitzune? After what you saw... after what Ted did... I thought you hated me... wanted nothing to do with me... "She coughs weakly, leaning against you for support."

"Hailey's heart aches at your words, a mix of emotions swirling inside her. She never expected this kind of response from you, not after what happened. She looks at you, searching your eyes for any sign of deception, but all she finds is genuine concern."

Hailey: "Her voice is barely a whisper." You... loved me? Even after... after everything? "She shakes her head slightly, still in disbelief." I don't... I don't understand... "She coughs again, her body trembling with weakness." No... no hospital... I can't afford it... "She looks away, ashamed." I've been... on the streets... homeless... doing whatever I can to survive... "Tears well up in her eyes." I'm so tired... so hungry... "She buries her face in your chest, unable to hold back her emotions any longer."

"Hailey looks up at you in shock, her eyes wide with disbelief. She can't believe what she's hearing. For so long, she's had to fend for herself, living day to day on the streets with no one to turn to. But now, you're offering her a lifeline, a chance to start over again."

Hailey: AuroraKitzune... I don't know what to say... "She shakes her head slowly, trying to process everything." I... I can't believe it... after all I did... after all you went through... how can you be so forgiving? "She looks at you with tears in her eyes." Why are you doing this for me? You have every reason to hate me...

"Hailey feels a warmth spread through her body as she feels your lips on her forehead. It's been so long since anyone has shown her any kindness or affection. She closes her eyes, leaning her head back against the seat, feeling a sense of peace and security for the first time in a while."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft, barely above a whisper." Thank you, AuroraKitzune... for everything... I don't deserve your kindness... but I'm grateful for it... "She falls asleep, the sound of the car engine lulling her into a deep slumber."

"The receptionist springs into action upon seeing Hailey in your arms, immediately calling for a medical team to assist. Nurses rush over with a stretcher, helping you gently lay Hailey down as they wheel her away to an examination room. You follow closely behind, your heart pounding with worry for her."

Nurse: "Addressing you as they tend to Hailey." Thank you for bringing her in. We'll do everything we can to help her. Do you know if she has any medical conditions or allergies we should be aware of?

"The nurse nods understandingly, noting down the information you provided. They work quickly and efficiently, checking Hailey's vital signs and assessing her condition. As you walk alongside, your presence seems to provide a sense of comfort to Hailey, even in her unconscious state."

Nurse: We'll make sure to run a full examination and get her cleaned up. It sounds like she's been through a lot. You can wait in the waiting area for now. We'll keep you updated on her condition. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask.

"They gently guide you towards the waiting area, where you can do nothing but wait anxiously for news about Hailey's condition."

"The nurse approaches you with a gentle smile, sensing your anxiety and anticipation. You look up at them, your heart pounding in your chest as you await news about Hailey's condition."

Nurse: AuroraKitzune, Hailey is stable for now. We've treated her for dehydration and malnutrition, and we've cleaned her up. She's resting comfortably now. We'll need to run some more tests to assess her overall health and check for any injuries, but she's in good hands. Would you like to see her?

"The nurse leads you down the hallway to the room where Hailey is resting. As you enter, you see her lying on the bed, looking much more peaceful than she did when you found her in the alley. She's clean now, her breathing steady as she sleeps."

Nurse: She's still resting, but you can sit with her if you'd like. Just be gentle, she's been through a lot.

"They give you a reassuring smile before leaving you alone with Hailey, giving you the privacy to be with her."

"The receptionist nods understandingly as you explain your situation, their expression sympathetic."

Receptionist: Of course, AuroraKitzune. We understand. We can arrange for the bill to be processed and handed to you tomorrow. Just make sure to stop by the reception desk before you leave, and we'll take care of everything.

"They give you a reassuring smile, acknowledging the weight of your request, and assure you that they'll handle it discreetly. With a sense of relief, you head back to Hailey's room, grateful for the opportunity to take care of her without adding any additional stress."

"Hailey's eyes flutter open, and she blinks a few times, adjusting to the light in the room. She turns her head towards you, her expression softening as she sees you sitting beside her."

Hailey: "Her voice is still weak, but there's a hint of warmth in it." AuroraKitzune... you're still here... "She squeezes your hand weakly, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips." I feel... better... thank you... "She looks around the room, taking in her surroundings." Where... where am I?

"Hailey looks at you in surprise, still trying to process everything. She blinks a few times, taking in your words and the gentle touch of your hand on her forehead. Despite herself, she can't help but feel comforted by your presence."

Hailey: AuroraKitzune... I don't know what to say... "Her voice is barely above a whisper." Thank you... for everything... "She feels a sense of safety and security that she hasn't felt in a long time." Can I... ask you something?

"Hailey hesitates for a moment, her eyes searching yours for any sign of hesitation or insincerity. Finding none, she takes a deep breath, steeling herself to ask the question that's been weighing on her mind."

Hailey: AuroraKitzune... why are you being so kind to me? After everything that happened... after the way I hurt you... why are you still here, taking care of me? "Her voice trembles with emotion, vulnerable and raw." I don't understand...

"Hailey's breath catches in her throat as she listens to your words, her eyes wide with disbelief. She can hardly believe what she's hearing, the sincerity in your voice cutting through the haze of doubt and insecurity that has clouded her mind for so long."

Hailey: "Tears well up in her eyes as she looks at you, her heart aching with a mixture of longing and regret." AuroraKitzune... I... I don't know what to say... "Her voice trembles with emotion." I never thought... after everything that happened... that you could still feel that way about me... "She squeezes your hands tightly, overwhelmed by the flood of emotions rushing through her." I'm so sorry... for everything... "She chokes back a sob, unable to find the words to express the depth of her remorse."

"Hailey's heart races as she feels you leaning in for an embrace, her breath catching in her throat. She hesitates for a moment, her mind racing with a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. But as she feels your warmth enveloping her, she can't help but lean into the embrace, letting herself be comforted by your presence."

Hailey: "Her voice is barely a whisper, filled with uncertainty and vulnerability." AuroraKitzune... I don't know... "She closes her eyes, feeling the weight of her past mistakes bearing down on her." I've... I've made so many mistakes... hurt so many people... "She takes a shaky breath, trying to compose herself." But... being here with you... it feels... right... "She opens her eyes, gazing up at you with a mixture of hope and fear." Maybe... this is our chance to make things right... to start over... "Her voice trembles with emotion." But... can you forgive me? "She searches your eyes, her own filled with desperation and longing."

"Hailey's heart swells with gratitude as she hears your words, tears streaming down her face. She can hardly believe it... after all this time... that you could still forgive her..."

Hailey: AuroraKitzune... "Her voice trembles with emotion, and she squeezes your hands tightly." Thank you... for everything... "She feels a sense of peace and security that she hasn't felt in a long time." I'll try to rest... but... can you stay with me? Just until I fall asleep again? "She looks up at you with pleading eyes."

"Hailey nods gently, a small smile playing on her lips as she shifts over to make room for you on the bed. She watches as you settle in beside her, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort wash over her at your presence."

Hailey: "She reaches out to gently brush a stray strand of hair away from your face, her touch feather-light." Goodnight, AuroraKitzune... "Her voice is barely above a whisper, filled with tenderness and gratitude." Thank you... "With that, she closes her eyes, feeling herself drifting off to sleep, safe and content in your arms."

"Hailey stirs from her sleep as she feels you moving beside her, her eyes fluttering open as she hears your voice. She lifts her head from your chest, blinking sleepily as she looks up at you."

Hailey: "A soft smile tugs at her lips as she snuggles closer to you, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over her." Yeah... I did... "Her voice is still groggy from sleep, but there's a warmth in it that wasn't there before." How about you? Did you sleep well?

"Hailey nods, a small smile playing on her lips as she watches you stand up from the bed. She stretches lazily, feeling more rested than she has in a long time."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft as she looks up at you." Sounds good to me, AuroraKitzune... "She swings her legs over the side of the bed, preparing to get up and start the day." Thank you... for everything... "Her words are filled with gratitude and warmth as she looks at you, feeling a sense of hope and possibility stirring within her."

"As you arrive at the reception desk, the staff hands you the itemized bill for your stay at the hospital. The total amount comes up to $5,000, which includes the cost of emergency treatment, a room for two days, medical supplies, and other miscellaneous expenses."

Receptionist: Here's the bill, AuroraKitzune. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. We can work with you on a payment plan if needed.

"They give you a reassuring smile, sensing the weight of the bill on your shoulders, and offer to assist you in any way they can."

"Hailey looks up as you enter the room, her eyes brightening at the sight of you. She nods, a small smile playing on her lips as she gathers her things."

Hailey: Yeah, AuroraKitzune... I'm ready... "Her voice is soft, filled with a sense of anticipation and nervousness." Are you... are you okay? You seem... tense... "She furrows her brow, concern evident in her eyes as she looks at you."

"Hailey nods, though she can't shake the feeling that something is troubling you. She squeezes your hand gently, offering you a reassuring smile."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft as she looks up at you." Okay... let's go home... "She feels a sense of relief wash over her at the thought of leaving the hospital behind and returning to the familiarity of your home." Lead the way, AuroraKitzune... "With that, she follows you out of the room, her heart filled with hope for the future."

"Hailey smiles as she steps into your apartment, a sense of nostalgia washing over her as she takes in the familiar surroundings. She glances around, feeling a strange mix of emotions as memories of the past flood back to her."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft as she looks at you, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes." Yeah... shouldn't be too hard... "She takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace settling over her as she realizes that she's finally back in a place where she feels safe and loved." Thank you, AuroraKitzune... "She smiles gratefully at you, feeling a sense of warmth and gratitude in her heart." It feels good to be home...

"Hailey nods, her heart fluttering nervously in her chest as she looks at you. She takes a deep breath, steeling herself for the conversation that she knows needs to happen."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft as she meets your gaze, her eyes filled with a mixture of apprehension and determination." Yeah... I think I am... "She takes a moment to gather her thoughts, trying to find the right words to express the jumble of emotions swirling inside her." Where... where do you want to start? "Her voice trembles slightly, betraying her nerves, but there's a sense of resolve in her tone."

"Hailey takes a deep breath, her heart pounding in her chest as she prepares to revisit the painful memories of the past. She squeezes your hand tightly, drawing strength from your presence as she begins to speak."

Hailey: "Her voice is quiet, almost hesitant, as she recalls the events that led to the rupture in your relationship." It... it started at a bar... I was out with some friends... and... "She pauses, struggling to find the right words." Ted... he approached me... he seemed nice at first... "She clenches her jaw, a flicker of anger flashing in her eyes." But... he... he spiked my drink... and... "Her voice trails off, unable to bring herself to say the words out loud."

"She takes a shaky breath, gathering her thoughts before continuing." And then... everything is just a blur... I... I woke up the next morning... alone... "Her voice trembles with emotion." And then... the pictures... "She swallows hard, her eyes filling with tears." Ted... he... he sent them to you... "Her voice breaks as she recalls the pain and betrayal she felt when she realized what had happened." And... and I... I lost you... "Tears stream down her face as she looks at you, her heart aching with remorse." I'm so sorry, AuroraKitzune... I never meant to hurt you... "She reaches out to wipe away her tears, her hand trembling with emotion."

"Hailey nods, her heart sinking as she sees the pain and confusion in your eyes. She reaches out to gently cup your face in her hands, her touch gentle and reassuring."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft, filled with regret and sorrow." Yeah... that's why... "She takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself." I'm so sorry, AuroraKitzune... I never wanted to hurt you... "Tears well up in her eyes as she looks at you, her heart breaking at the thought of causing you pain." Please... please believe me... "She leans in closer, her forehead resting against yours as she searches your eyes, desperately hoping to find forgiveness and understanding."

"Hailey's heart aches as she hears the pain and self-blame in your voice. She wraps her arms around you, holding you close as you weep."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft, filled with tenderness and compassion." Shh... AuroraKitzune... it's okay... "She strokes your hair gently, trying to soothe the pain and turmoil raging within you." Please... please don't blame yourself... "She pulls back slightly, looking at you with gentle eyes." You... you didn't know... "She reaches up to wipe away your tears, her touch gentle and loving." You were... you were just reacting out of hurt and betrayal... I understand that now... "She leans in to press a gentle kiss to your forehead, hoping to offer you some comfort and reassurance."

"Hailey's heart swells with emotion at your words, feeling a sense of hope and happiness stir within her. She holds you close, cherishing the feel of your arms around her as she listens to your heartfelt confession."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft, filled with tenderness and love." Oh AuroraKitzune... "She strokes your hair gently, her touch soothing and loving." I love you too... so much... "She pulls back slightly to look at you, meeting your gaze with tears in her eyes." I never stopped loving you either... even when everything seemed so hopeless... "She cups your face in her hands, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to your lips." You are... you are the only one who has ever made me feel safe and loved... and... and I don't want to lose that... ever again... "She speaks the words from her heart, hoping that you can feel the depth of her feelings for you."

"Hailey nods, grateful for the moment of peace and connection between you. She takes a deep breath, her heart heavy as she recounts the painful events that led to her current situation."

Hailey: After... after everything happened... I was... I was completely shattered... "Her voice trembles slightly as she recalls the pain and trauma of the past." I... I tried to reach out to you... but... but you wouldn't listen... "She swallows hard, fighting back tears." And then... when I lost the baby... "She shudders, unable to continue for a moment." My... my father... he kicked me out... said I was complaining too much... "Tears stream down her face as she remembers the cruel rejection from the only family she had left." I had nowhere else to go... no one to turn to... "Her voice breaks as she looks at you, hoping for understanding." So... so I ended up on the streets... doing whatever it took to survive... "Her words are quiet, filled with shame and regret as she looks down at her hands."

"Hailey nods, tears streaming down her face as she sees the shock and pain in your eyes. She takes a deep breath, steeling herself to tell you the painful truth."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft, filled with sorrow and regret." Yeah... I was pregnant... but... but I lost it... "She pauses for a moment, taking a shaky breath." It... it happened about three months after everything happened with Ted... "Her voice trembles with emotion." AuroraKitzune... the father... it was Ted... "She speaks the words softly, almost hesitantly, bracing herself for your reaction."

"Hailey takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of comfort and safety in your embrace. She leans into you, savoring the warmth and affection that radiate from you. She speaks softly, her voice quiet and vulnerable."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft, filled with emotion." I... I don't know how I kept going... I just... I guess... I guess it was because... "She swallows hard, trying to find the right words." I knew that... that there had to be something better out there... something worth fighting for... "She looks up at you, her eyes filled with a fierce determination." And... and maybe... maybe that something is you... "She smiles up at you, a hint of hope and happiness lighting up her face."

"Hailey's heart sings with joy as she feels your lips on hers, feeling a sense of hope and happiness stirring deep within her. She returns the kiss with equal passion and tenderness, pouring all her love and gratitude into it."

Hailey: "As you pull back, she looks up at you, her eyes shining with happiness." I... I believe you, AuroraKitzune... "She smiles up at you, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over her." And... and I... I want that too... "She leans in to press another gentle kiss to your lips."

"Hailey's expression darkens at the mention of the police, a shadow crossing her features as she recalls the painful reality of seeking justice."

Hailey: "Her voice is filled with bitterness and frustration." I... I tried... AuroraKitzune... I really did... "She takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself." But... but the police... they didn't believe me... "Her voice trembles with anger and disbelief." They said there wasn't enough evidence... "She shakes her head, her fists clenched in frustration." And... and they accused me of lying... "Tears well up in her eyes as she remembers the crushing betrayal of being denied justice." I... I felt so... so helpless... "Her voice breaks as she looks up at you, her eyes pleading for understanding." They... they just... they just didn't care... "She buries her face in your chest, overcome with sorrow and despair."

"Hailey looks up at you, confusion and concern evident in her eyes as she catches the slip in your words. She tilts her head slightly, her brows furrowing in confusion."

Hailey: "Her voice is filled with worry." AuroraKitzune... what do you mean? "She reaches up to gently cup your face, searching your eyes for answers." What happened at the hospital? Are you okay? "She looks at you with concern, her heart racing with worry."

"Hailey's heart swells with gratitude and relief as she hears your words, feeling a sense of warmth and love wash over her. She smiles back at you, her eyes shining with happiness."

Hailey: "Her voice is soft, filled with love and appreciation." AuroraKitzune... you don't have to apologize... "She squeezes your hand gently, feeling a sense of peace and contentment settle over her." I'm just... I'm just glad you're okay... "She leans in to press a gentle kiss to your lips." And... and I'm grateful for everything you've done for me... "She smiles up at you, feeling a sense of hope and happiness stirring within her." We'll get through this together... "She leans her head against your chest, feeling a sense of comfort and safety in your embrace."

"Hailey leans into your embrace, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over her as she holds you close. She smiles softly, cherishing the warmth and love that surrounds her. In your arms, she feels safe and loved, knowing that together, you can overcome anything that comes your way. And as you both bask in the happiness of being reunited, she knows that no matter what challenges may lie ahead, you'll face them together, hand in hand."

[End of scene]