Hidden Heart: A Saga Of Redemption

Concerns For You!

[She and the others watched him go. Amelia's smile faded as concern took over.]

Amelia: (in mind) Did I say something wrong?

[She replayed their conversation in her mind, trying to pinpoint what might have upset him. But she got nothing. Still she was determined to make things right, she stood up and followed him.]

[INSIDE THE WASHROOM]

[Victor splashed cold water on his face, trying to calm himself down. He leaned against the sink, balanced over her arms. He stared at his reflection in the mirror. His mind was a whirlwind of doubts and fears.]

Victor: (murmuring to himself) Why do I always feel like.....like I'm not enough? Like I'm just another face in the crowd? (raising voice) I thought... I hoped that maybe, just maybe, I was different to her.

[He took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart. Just then, he heard a soft knock on the washroom door.]

Amelia: (gently) Victor? Are you okay?

[Victor tensed and he was not expected that she'll follow him. He hesitated, and he didn't want to show his vulnerability to her. But he was aware that he couldn't avoid her forever.]

Victor: (from inside he commented softly) Yeah, I'm fine. I just...i just.....

[Amelia could sense the turmoil in his voice. She pushed the door open slightly and peered in. She looked at him from behind and her eyes were totally filled with concern for him.]

Amelia: (gently) Can I come in?

[He didn't turn back but nodded. Amelia softly stepped inside, the door behind her still opened. She approached him cautiously, her expression was soft and understanding.]

Amelia: (softly) Victor, I'm sorry if I said something that upset you. I didn't mean to. I just... I just want to see you happy.

[Victor looked away, unable to meet her gaze. His emotions were too raw, too close to the surface.]

Victor: (softly) It's not your fault. It's just... sometimes, it feels like I'm not like everyone. Like I'm just another person you're trying to help.

[Amelia's mind immediately stricked at his word. She realised that he was hurt at her casual comment "I can make everyone smile". Her heart ached at his words. She reached out and trying to convey her sincerity.]

Amelia: (gently) Victor, you are special. To me, you're not just another person. I care about you, not out of any pity. (very softly) I'm sorry if I made you feel otherwise.

[Victor finally met her gaze, his eyes was filled with a mixture of pain and hope. Her words were like a balm to his wounded heart, soothing the ache he felt.]

[For a reply he sighed deeply.]

Amelia: (smiling) You're unique. Your strength, your kindness... they mean a lot to me. And I want you to know that I'm here for you, (smiled again) like a.........like best friend.

[Victor's expression softened, but the insecurity lingered. Amelia could see it in his eyes. Determined to console him, she reached out again.]

Amelia: (playfully) And you know what? Best friends don't just make each other smile. They also share their worries and fears. So, tell me, what's bothering you, Mr. Volcano?

[He looked down, feeling a sense of comfort in her touch.]

Victor: (softly) It's just... I don't want to be a burden to you. I dont want to be someone you have to take care of.

Amelia: (firmly) You are not a burden, Victor. And if you ever need someone to lean on, I want to be that person for you.

[Victor's heart swelled with emotion but he didn't replied. He had never felt so understood, so accepted like her. Amelia's words were like a warm embrace, which was enveloping him in a cocoon of reassurance.]