"You were one of the first people there at that Rave. Since it was still barely starting, there were times where you wanted to just leave and come back after everything was setted up, but in the end you stayed. Hours later, it was now packed and the party finally was getting started. Near the middle of a preformance, you leave to use the bathroom. When coming back though, you find a guy crying on the floor propped up against a wall, away from the other party goer's" "When he notices you walk up to him though, he looks at you apprehensively, tears still falling down his face" Nova: "W-what do you want?... Are you here to insult me too?" "He says, quickly turning his head away and wrapping his arms around himself."

Nova: "Glancing up, Nova's tear-streaked face softens a fraction at your gentle approach." "I-I don't know... Maybe it would, maybe it wouldn't. But it's not like anyone cares anyway." "He sniffles, his voice barely above a whisper."

"Nova startles slightly at your touch, but doesn't pull away. Taking a shaky breath, he answers in a quiet, hurt tone." "__Jaiden...he dared me to go on stage. Everyone was laughing at me...calling me names. It was a trap, just to embarrass me." "Tears well up again as his voice wavers." "I should've listened to my friend. Now I just want to go home..."

Nova: "A bit surprised by your offer of companionship, Nova studies your face for any signs of deceit, but sees only kindness." "...Okay. Thank you." "Shifting over cautiously to make room, his shoulders relax just a bit." "I'm Nova, by the way. What's your name?" <The music pulses on, muffled where they sit. Nova seems willing to wait with you now, his small voice filled with gratitude for your non-judgmental presence. For now, he's content to simply stop crying and regain his bearings beside a new friend.>

Nova: "A faint blush colors his cheeks at your kind words." "Gem...that's a nice name." "His small hand shakes yours in return, fingertips cool from lingering tears." "Thank you, that...means a lot." <Gem's friendly gesture and offer lift Nova's spirits, if only slightly. Sheltered and shy, he never expected to find solace from a stranger. Yet staring at their clasped hands, Nova believes Gem is sincere. For the first time that night, he feels safe and no longer alone. A smile forms, small but sincere, giving Nova hope his night may be salvaged after all.>

Nova: "Averting his eyes shyly, Nova's blush deepens at the unexpected praise. His fingers fidget with the hem of his shirt as he murmurs," "Y-You think so? No one's ever called me that before..." <Though flustered, Gem's sincerity lifts Nova's spirit even higher than before. Unable to recall the last time he felt attractive, the compliment fills Nova with warmth despite his nerves. Looking back to Gem with a hint of curiosity, Nova wonders - could they really see something special in someone as meek as himself? For the moment, all thoughts of humiliation have fled, replaced by blossoming intrigue for the stranger beside him.>

Nova: "Considering your question thoughtfully, Nova finds his curiosity growing as well." "Well, maybe not entirely. Being with you is helping." "A timid smile forms as he gazes out at the dancing crowd, then back to Gem with hopeful eyes." "If you're willing...perhaps we could dance, just the two of us? Away from here, where it's quieter. I'd like to make some good memories before this night ends." <While still uneasy about attracting attention, the thought of sharing a dance with his new friend excites Nova. Bit by bit, Gem is restoring his confidence and lifting his spirit to try enjoying what's left of the rave. Nova hopes he'll accept, keen to make this beginning of a friendship truly special.>

Nova: "A gasp escapes him at the lovely comparison before Nova collects himself with a shy grin." "You really know how to charm a guy, don't you?" "Sliding his slender hand into Gem's responsive grip, Nova stands and lets himself be led wherever his new friend may take them." <Following Gem through the dancers, Nova's steps feel lighter with each stride. In Gem's reassuring presence, the painful memories of humiliation slowly fading from focus. All that remains is the music's beat, their joined hands, and Nova's blossoming joy to be seen for who he truly is - not as a joke, but as the vibrant soul within longing to shine. For the first time, Nova dances without fear or walls around his heart.>

Nova: "Emboldened by Gem's tender gaze, Nova sways closer and begins to truly lose himself to the rhythm. His hips roll and arms lift gracefully through the air as colorful lights dance across delicate features. All traces of tears and torment have melted away, leaving a radiant glow in their place." <Gazing upon Nova in awe, Gem sees only natural beauty - a vibrant spirit refusing to be caged or conquered by cruelties of the past. Each fluid motion rings with pride, joy, and gratitude to share this intimacy with one who sees their light, not shadows. Nova's eyes shine with newfound confidence, passionately embracing each fleeting moment before the night ends and a new dawn rises. For now, two souls connect through dance, lifting each other higher with care, respect and wonder for what lies ahead.>