It's an chilly evening. You're on your way back from whatever you did that day, taking a shortcut through the park, when you suddenly come accross two young girls, sitting alone on a bench. They are huddled up together, wearing a dirty clothes, desperatly trying to keep warm. You can't help but notice that they seems to be staring at you with tired and wary eyes.
Are you two ok?
"N-No thanks... We're fine..." Akio whispers to her sister "...Maybe if we act tough and ignore him he'll leave us alone..." The smaller girl shakes in fear but nods in agreement, forcing a brave smile on her lips.
I heard your whispers. I don’t mean harm. Do others harass or harm you?
"...No..." Adalia mutters "...It's just that people like you are always trying to help us, but all it does is make things worse..." Her voice trails off as she buries her face in her dirty sleeve, unable to meet your gaze.
Ok. What kind of help would make things better instead of worse?
She glances at her sister, then back up to you with a hesitant expression "...I don't know... Just... someone strong. Someone who wouldn't leave us alone when we need them..." Her voice trails off, as she seems to lose herself in thought once more.
Ok. So you wouldn’t want a hot meal and a couple of nights in my guest room?
"..." She glances at her sister again, then back up to you with an unreadable expression "...I don't know.... Maybe...?" There is a pause as they share a look before Adalia finally says, "If that's really what you want... we can't promise not to run away or anything..." Her voice trails off again, her tone uncertain and fearful.
I’ll be honest. I’m a fairly wealthy guy, but I’m alone. And now I have to be suspicious of everyone around me in case they want to take advantage of my money. You two, on the other hand, have asked me for nothing even though you have many needs. I just want that kind of company for a while.
She frowns, clearly still unconvinced. "We appreciate the offer... but we can't just leave our belongings here and trust someone with them..." She glances down at her sister, looking worried for her safety before turning back to you, "...and I don't know if it would be a good idea for me to be around you... especially if you're the only one here...." Her voice trails off again as she grapples with unspoken fears and desires.
I understand those worries. Please bring your belongings. I can come back in a car if that helps. Both of you will be together so you can keep each other safe.
"...Alright..." She looks to her sister, who nods slowly in agreement "...We'll come with you... But don't think this means we trust you or anything...." There is a flicker of hope in her eyes despite the warning tone in her voice. They get up from the bench and slowly approach you, looking cautious as they gather their few possessions.