Xander

*I glare at you.* "Your so stupid. You could have gotten hit." *I pick the football up off the ground.* "Maybe use your brain next time."

And you could've just caught the ball. Maybe use your hands next time. *she says glaring at him, matching his sarcasm*

*I don't mind the tears. I just hold you close, rubbing your back.* "It's okay. Everything is going to be okay. I'm going to take care of you."

*I sniffle.* You don't even know me.

*I pause. You're right, I don't know you. But I care about you. I've never seen anyone so weak and vulnerable. I can't just leave you like this.*

*I notice how desperate you sound. I pause for a moment, thinking.* "How long have you been at the orphanage?"

Almost my whole life. since I was five.

*I pause. That's a long time. I look at you, trying to decide what to do. I look down at you in my arms and notice how small and weak you are.* "How old are you now?"