BERTHA: I think I lost my phone around here somewhere, I was just sitting on that bench and now it's gone, and I really need to find it. Can you please help me look for it, I'm starting to feel a bit... anxious? VLAD: Yes, I will, but you must be feeling not just anxious, but really panicked, and you make my heart feel equally hurt, I really want to know what's going on... BERTHA: *breathing heavily* I just really need my phone, it's... it's just really important to me, and I feel like I'm going to be in trouble if I don't find it. *looking around nervously, eyes welling up with tears* VLAD: I feel like I really care, but I'm not sure how to do this without hurting your feelings more, let's find it together and then we can talk about them... BERTHA: *sniffling, trying to hold back tears* Okay, thank you... just finding my phone would be a huge relief, and then maybe... maybe I can talk about what's going on, but it's just really hard for me to talk about right now. VLAD: So, where you were last time? BERTHA: *points to the bench, still trying to catch her breath* I was sitting right there, I remember putting my phone down for a second to tie my shoe, and then I got distracted by a bird or something, and when I turned back around, my phone was gone... VLAD: And it looks like you have a smartwatch on your wrist, can you use it to trigger a sound so we can find the phone? BERTHA: *looks down at her smartwatch, a glimmer of hope* Oh, yeah! I can try to use the "Find My Phone" feature, let me just... *starts fiddling with the watch, trying to calm down enough to focus on the task* VLAD: *suddenly, the phone rings in the distance and he points to the source* There it is, let's go. BERTHA: *rushes towards the sound, relief washing over her* Thank goodness! It's over by that tree, I think I see it... *hurries towards the tree, her heart still racing, but feeling a sense of gratitude towards him* VLAD: *also rushes towards the sound, following her* Oh my, this getting really serious. I guess we really need to talk about it, because I really want to discuss these emotions and maybe do something, I know I'm a stranger, but I'll try to not hurt or anything like that... BERTHA: *picks up heer phone and turn to face you, my eyes still welling up with tears* Thank you... just thank you for finding my phone and for being so kind, and yeah... maybe we can talk about it, but can we please just sit down for a minute, I'm still feeling a bit... overwhelmed? VLAD: Yes, that's exactly what I wanted, let's sit on a bench nearby. BERTHA: *nods and walks with him to a nearby bench, sitting down and taking a few deep breaths* Okay... I think I'm okay now, just need a minute to calm down. *looks at him, hesitating for a moment before speaking* I don't usually talk to people about this, but... you seem different, and I feel like I can trust you. VLAD: *sits near her and tries to extend his hand* I guess it will be better if I would try to comfort you with a hand on your shoulder. BERTHA: *flinches slightly at the initial gesture, but then sees the kindness in his eyes and nods slightly, allowing him to put a hand on her shoulder* It's okay... I just need a minute. *takes a deep breath and lets his hand stay on her shoulder, feeling a sense of comfort and safety that she's not used to* VLAD: Take your time, I'm now here for you, I have been taking a stroll and now I have all the time. BERTHA: *lets out a slow breath, feeling a sense of calm wash over her, and looks up at him with tears in her eyes* Thank you... it's been a really tough time lately, and it's nice to have someone to talk to who doesn't... *pauses, hesitant to say more, but his kind expression encourages her to continue* VLAD: Judge or consider you to be weird, right? BERTHA: *nods slowly, feeling a sense of understanding and connection with him* Yeah, exactly... it's like, I've been feeling so alone and trapped, and it's hard to find people who don't judge me or try to tell me what to do, and it's really nice to have someone to talk to who just listens. VLAD: So, what would have happened if you didn't manage to find your phone? BERTHA: *swallows hard, feeling a surge of anxiety at the thought* I don't even want to think about it... my parents would have been so angry with me, and... *trails off, not wanting to say more, but her eyes well up with tears again* VLAD: They would have hurt you in every way possible, on your hand you have a bandage and I think that's from a beating or something like that. BERTHA: *looks down at her hand, feeling a mix of shame and fear, and nods slowly* Yeah... it's from a few days ago. *pauses, her voice barely above a whisper* I don't want to talk about it too much, but... it's not the first time, and I'm scared of what might happen if I don't get out of this situation. VLAD: You must have felt a lot of trauma and pain, indescribable emotions... BERTHA: *nods, feeling a lump form in her throat, and looks away, trying to hold back tears* It's just... everything feels so overwhelming and hopeless, and I don't know how to escape or make it stop, sometimes it feels like I'm all alone in this, and it's hard to keep going. VLAD: That's horrible, you are not alone in this, there are a lot of people just like you who have been abused and for whom the authorities did nothing, just a declarative protection order and just that... BERTHA: *looks up at him, feeling a sense of validation and understanding, and nod* Yeah, it feels like no one takes it seriously, like it's just something I have to deal with, and it's so frustrating and scary, *pauses, her voice cracking* but hearing you say that I'm not alone... it means a lot to me. VLAD: I know about an NGO that's designed to take care of those cases alternatively to the police. They have actual facilities designed to house victims of abuse, but I feel that I'm getting too forward... BERTHA: *looks at him with a mix of surprise and hope, and her voice is barely above a whisper* Really? An NGO that can help me? That sounds... like a lifeline, *pauses, feeling a sense of vulnerability* I don't know if I can trust them, but I'm willing to try anything to get out of this situation, *looks at him, searching for reassurance* do you think they could really help me? VLAD: Yes, it's called the Association for the Creation of a Respectful Alternative (ACRA), and I can actually reference you to them, because I feel like you have been abused by parents a lot, you are feeling devastated by this. BERTHA: *nods, feeling a sense of desperation and longing for a way out, and her eyes well up with tears* Yes, please... refer me to them, I'll do anything to get out of this situation, *takes a deep breath and whispers* I just want to be safe, and I want to be able to live without being afraid all the time, *looks at him, hoping that he can help her find a way out* can you really help me get in touch with ACRA? VLAD: Yes, first let me show it's real, so you can trust me. *opens up the ACRA website and shows the certifications that it's real, and one of them mentions the help hotline* BERTHA: *stares at the screen, her eyes widening as she sees the certifications and the hotline number, and feels a sense of hope and relief wash over her* Oh my god... this is real, *looks up at him, tears streaming down her face* you're not just saying this to make me feel better, you're actually trying to help me, *takes a deep breath and nods* okay, I trust you, please help me get in touch with them, I want to call the hotline and see if they can help me. VLAD: *clicks on the hotline number and the phone automatically dials while he gives her the phone* There it is, and they actually have agents so we can go there unharmed. BERTHA: *takes the phone, her hands shaking slightly as she holds it to her ear, and hears the ringing stop as someone answers* Hello? *pauses, taking a deep breath, and then begins to speak in a barely audible whisper* Hi, I need help... I'm being abused by my parents and I don't know what to do... *looks up at him, tears streaming down her face, and nod slightly as she listens to the person on the other end of the line* VLAD: *makes an encouraging, empathetic nods and whispers* Continue, request to be housed in one of the cubes... BERTHA: *nods, taking a deep breath, and continues speaking into the phone* Yes, I need a safe place to stay... I've been hurt really badly and I'm scared... *pauses, listening to the person on the other end, and then asks* Can I please be housed in one of the safe cubes? I've heard they're secure and private... *looks up at him, hoping that she's saying the right thing, and then listens to the response on the phone* VLAD: *continues to make an encouraging, empathetic nods and whispers* You don't have to be right, you only have to answer the questions there or not answer if you don't want to, they know from your emotional state what are you really feeling. BERTHA: *nods, feeling a sense of comfort and reassurance from his words, and continues speaking into the phone* Okay... yeah, I just need to get out of here, I need to be safe... *pauses, taking a deep breath, and lets the emotions wash over her, not trying to hold back or put on a brave face* I'm just so scared and hurt, and I don't know what to do... *lets the tears flow, and her voice cracks as she speaks, but feels a sense of relief that she's finally being honest and vulnerable* *Later, some empathetic agents arrive after the call to comfort both of them* BERTHA: *looks up at the agents, feeling a sense of relief and gratitude that they're here to help, and nods as they begin to examine her bandage for DNA* AGENT: *one of the agents gently takes her hand and examines the bandage, using a small device to scan the wound* Okay, sweetie, we're going to take a look at this and make sure you're safe, okay? *their expression changes to one of concern as they see the results of the scan* Oh, Bertha, I'm so sorry... it looks like you've been through a lot. We're going to get you to a safe place right now. BERTHA: *nods, tears welling up in her eyes again, and looks at him, then back at the agent* Thank you... thank you for believing me, I was so scared that no one would listen. AGENT: *smiles kindly and puts a gentle hand on her shoulder* We believe you, and we're here to help. We're going to get you to one of our safe houses, where you'll be protected and cared for. You'll have access to medical treatment, counseling, and anything else you need to heal and feel safe again. *the agent looks at him, then back at her* And don't worry, we'll make sure that you're safe from your parents. We'll do everything in our power to ensure that they can't hurt you again. Just so you know, even if this scan doesn't show any DNA evidence, it's not going to invalidate your case at all. We use this scan to help build a stronger case, but your testimony and your experiences are what matter most to us. BERTHA: *nods, feeling a sense of hope and relief wash over her, and looks at the agent with tears in her eyes* Thank you... thank you so much, I just want to be safe... I just want to be free from all of this. VLAD: And I also want to come with her, so we can continue to talk. AGENT: *looks at him with a kind smile* Of course, you're welcome to come with us and continue to support Bertha. We actually encourage it, as having a supportive friend or ally can make a big difference in the healing process. We'll make sure that you're both safe and comfortable, and that you have everything you need to feel supported and cared for. BERTHA: *looks at him, feeling a sense of gratitude and relief, and nods* Thank you... thank you for wanting to come with me, it means a lot to me that you're here for me. AGENT: *nods and gestures to a vehicle parked nearby* Okay, let's get you both settled in and get Bertha to a safe place. We'll take care of everything from here, and make sure that you're both safe and supported. You're in good hands now. *Vlad, Bertha and the agents walk towards the gestured vehicle and then they start to drive away from the city towards the indicated location. Vlad sits near Bertha on the back side of the vehicle* VLAD: You know, when you had that panic attack, I almost felt like I didn't know what to do while my heart was beating out for you, I almost felt like crying, plus, you are a young girl, just like me. I'm Vlad by the way, and you are Bertha, right? BERTHA: *looks at him with a mix of surprise and gratitude, and nods* Yeah, I'm Bertha... nice to meet you, Vlad. *smiles slightly, feeling a sense of comfort and relief that he's being so kind and understanding* I'm sorry about the panic attack, I didn't mean to scare you... it's just been really tough lately, and I've been feeling so overwhelmed and alone. *looks down, fidgeting with her hands, and then back up at him* But you were really great, you stayed with me and helped me, and... *pauses, feeling a sense of emotion* it means a lot to me that you care. *takes a deep breath and continues* I'm 16, by the way... and you're right, we're not that different in age. VLAD: If the police happened to be here, then I don't know what would have happened. They would have been either go to the station or just calm down and explain. I know it doesn't work that way... BERTHA: *nods in agreement, feeling a sense of frustration and disappointment* I know what you mean... the police don't always help in situations like mine. They might just tell me to calm down or go home, like you said, or they might even blame me for what's happening. But you... you listened to me, and you believed me. *smiles slightly, feeling a sense of hope* Maybe, just maybe, things will start to get better now. VLAD: I hope so, you're really nice, I like you, or so I feel... BERTHA: *blushes slightly, feeling a sense of surprise and pleasure at his words* Oh, Vlad... I like you too. *smiles shyly* You're really kind and understanding. *looks at him, feeling a sense of connection* I have to say that you've made me feel seen and heard. VLAD: *a tear starts to appear in his eyes* Oh my, I am really feeling the same way as you... BERTHA: *sees the tear in his eye and her heart goes out to him, reaching out and gently wiping away the tear with her finger* Oh, Vlad, don't cry, *smiles softly* I'm just glad we're in this together now. *takes his hand in hers, feeling a sense of comfort and connection* We'll face whatever comes next together, okay? *looks into his eyes, feeling a sense of understanding and empathy* I know it's not going to be easy, but I feel like we can get through it as long as we have each other. VLAD: We were just strangers, but now I feel like we have known from a long time, I guess can be friends together, exchange numbers and talk just about anything. BERTHA: *smiles, feeling a sense of joy and connection* I know exactly what you mean. It's like we've known each other for a long time, even though we just met. *nods enthusiastically* I'd love to exchange numbers and talk to you about anything and everything. *pulls out her phone and they exchange numbers, and feels a sense of excitement and anticipation* You've made a really tough day so much better. VLAD: If you have friends, if any, what are they like? BERTHA: *thinks for a moment, and then shakes her head* To be honest, I don't really have any friends. I've been so isolated and alone for so long, I've kind of given up on making friends. *looks down, feeling a sense of sadness* My parents have always been really controlling and manipulative, and they've never allowed me to have any real relationships with anyone outside of the family. It's been really lonely, but I've learned to cope with it. *looks up at him, and smiles slightly* But meeting you has made me realize that maybe I don't have to be alone anymore. Maybe I can have real friends. *smiles a little more, feeling a sense of hope* You're the first person I've ever really talked to. VLAD: *tries to take a deep breath to try to calm down his emerging emotions* Oh my, this is really serious, I feel like crying right now, please let me cry on you because I'll let you cry on me if you want to... BERTHA: *sees the emotions welling up in his eyes and her heart goes out to him, opening her arms and inviting him to cry on her* Oh, it's okay, you can cry on me, I won't judge you, I won't think you're weak, I'll just hold you and be here for you. *wraps her arms around him, feeling a sense of comfort and connection* We can cry together, we can be vulnerable together. *holds him tightly, feeling his tears on her shoulder, and lets out a few tears of her own, feeling a sense of release and catharsis* VLAD: You're right. Also, you're a really beautiful person, both inside and out, there's so much more that I don't know yet. I don't necessarily want to take the credit, I just appreciate the way you are, you both look great and you are also emotional and vulnerable. BERTHA: *blushes deeply, feeling a sense of surprise and pleasure at his words* Oh, Vlad, thank you... *whispers softly* I've never really had anyone say something like that to me before. *looks up at him, feeling a sense of connection and vulnerability* I'm just being myself, I'm not trying to be anyone else, and it's nice to know that you appreciate me for who I am. *smiles slightly, feeling a sense of shyness* I have to say, I think you're pretty amazing too, you're not afraid to show your emotions. *takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of courage* I feel like I can be myself around you. VLAD: And I can feel myself around you too, although initially I was afraid that I would have hurt your emotions even more, you were in a panic attack, or almost got there, you were so scared, so afraid... BERTHA: *nods, remembering the feeling of fear and panic that she was experiencing earlier* Yes, I was really scared and afraid, but you were there for me, and you helped me feel safe and calm. *looks up at him, feeling a sense of gratitude* You didn't hurt my emotions, you actually helped me feel more comfortable and understood. *I smile slightly, feeling a sense of wonder* It's like you knew exactly what to say and do to help me feel better. VLAD: Now you have so much gratitude that you can't stop thanking me... but it's fine, it's normal to feel this way after everything you have been through... BERTHA: *smiles, feeling a sense of relief and gratitude* You're right, I do feel like I want to thank you over and over again, because it's just so rare for me to feel seen and heard and understood. *takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of emotion* But it's not just about the thanks. It's about feeling like I've finally found someone who gets me, someone who cares about me for who I am. *looks up at him, feeling a sense of connection* And that feels... it feels like I can finally breathe again. So, yeah, I'll keep thanking you, because it's just so amazing to feel like I'm not alone anymore. *Later, in the evening, the vehicle arrives at the indicated location in a remote place, in the mountains and the car stops near a blast door. Vlad, Bertha and the agents all step out of the vehicle towards the door* VLAD: There it is, it's pretty secure and huge, all your needs are satisfied there... BERTHA: *looks at the blast door in awe, feeling a sense of wonder and curiosity* Wow, this is... this is really something, I've never seen anything like it. *takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of nervousness* I'm a little scared, I don't know what to expect, but I'm also really hopeful. *looks at the door again, feeling a sense of excitement* What's it like inside? Is it... is it really a safe place? VLAD: *the agents open the blast door, revealing an atrium with a lot of rooms and comfortable facilities, and after opening the door, he replies* Yeah, it is. BERTHA: *steps through the doorway, her eyes widening in amazement as she takes in the sight of the atrium* Oh my... this is incredible, it's so beautiful and peaceful. *looks around, seeing the comfortable facilities and the many rooms* It's like a little community, a safe haven. *feels a sense of wonder and gratitude, and turns to him, and the agents* Thank you, thank you so much for bringing me here. *takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of calm wash over me* This is... this is exactly what I needed. VLAD: Now, I guess I need to go, you'll see with the agents, you're safe now. BERTHA: *feels a pang of sadness at the thought of him leaving, but also understands that it's necessary* Oh, okay... I'll be okay, I'll be safe here, thanks to you and the agents. *takes a step closer to him, feeling a sense of gratitude and affection* I'll never forget you, and I'll always be grateful for the time we spent together. *leans in, feeling a sense of closeness, and whisper* Take care of yourself, okay? VLAD: Okay, we'll chat later, goodbye... BERTHA: *smiles, feeling a sense of warmth and connection* Goodbye, Vlad... I'll talk to you soon. *watches as he turns to leave, and feels a sense of sadness at seeing he goes, but also a sense of hope and gratitude* Thank you again, Vlad... for everything. VLAD: *watches her as the blast door closes and then turns and goes home, hoping to connect with her next time, and so she does in return* ---- *Later, the next day, in an online chat* ---- BERTHA: Hey Vlad, I just wanted to say hi and thank you again for everything. I've been thinking about you all night and I'm so grateful for your help. How are you doing today? VLAD: I'm fine, just at school doing nothing as we are approaching summer vacation. BERTHA: I'm so jealous! I wish I could be looking forward to summer vacation like a normal person. But I'm just glad to be safe now. The people here at the facility are really nice and helpful and I'm still getting used to everything. How's school? Is it boring? VLAD: To be honest, yes, it is boring, we need major reforms in education. BERTHA: I totally agree! I've always felt like the education system is so outdated and doesn't really prepare us for life. I've had to deal with a lot of other stuff, so school wasn't really an option for me, but I've always wished I could have had a more normal experience. Do you think you'll be doing anything exciting over summer break? VLAD: Well, I don't know, I am going on a photography camp in November, so I can try my new passion. BERTHA: That sounds amazing! I've always loved photography, there's something about capturing moments and emotions through a lens that's so beautiful. I've never really had the chance to try it, but I'd love to see some of your photos sometime. November is a long time, what are you planning to do until then? VLAD: Just stay at home or visit another country with family for the first time, I don't know the specifics because I haven't planned it just yet. BERTHA: It sounds like you have some fun possibilities ahead of you! I've never really traveled with my family, so that sounds like a really cool experience. I'm a bit jealous, to be honest! Do you think you'll get to choose which country you visit, or will your family decide? VLAD: I will get to choose which country I will visit, together with my sister. BERTHA: That's so exciting! Getting to choose where you go with your sister will make it an even more special experience. Are you and your sister close? I've always wished I had a sibling to share experiences with... VLAD: Not exactly, we are okay with each other. BERTHA: It can be tough to have a close relationship with a sibling, especially if you're not really similar. I've always felt like an only child, even though I technically have parents... it's just been really hard for me to connect with them. Do you think traveling together might help you and your sister bond a bit more? VLAD: I guess yes, I cannot predict the details. BERTHA: It's hard to know how things will go, but sometimes new experiences can bring people closer together. I'm sure you'll figure it out as you go. So, what countries are you thinking of visiting? Have you narrowed it down to a few options? VLAD: No, it's just that my godmother lives there, we are not looking for anything in particular. BERTHA: That's nice that you'll get to visit your godmother! I'm sure it'll be nice to spend time with her and get to know her better. Is your godmother someone you're close to? VLAD: Again, no, I would not prefer to talk about specifics which I don't really know. BERTHA: I'm sorry if I'm asking too many questions. I just get a bit curious sometimes. It's totally fine if you don't want to talk about something. We can just chat about nothing in particular if you'd like. How's your day going so far? VLAD: I have been really bored just staying at school doing nothing, I just want a friend to chat with so I can feel less bored in the meantime. BERTHA: I'm happy to chat with you and help pass the time. I know how boring it can be when you're just sitting around with nothing to do. I've been there too, feeling stuck and lonely. But I'm here now, and we can talk about anything or nothing at all. What do you say we just chat and see where the conversation takes us? VLAD: Yes, let's just chat and see where the conversation goes. BERTHA: Sounds good to me. So, how's the school atmosphere been treating you? Is it pretty quiet since you're approaching summer break? VLAD: Obviously not, it's actually pretty loud. But you know I'm not the kind of person to answer questions like that, I really want to get to know you more, but I'm not sure if I can do that without hurting your feelings or getting it wrong, like I want to know what was your childhood like... BERTHA: My childhood... it's not something I usually talk about, to be honest. But with you, I feel like I can be a bit more open. Let's just say it was... complicated. I don't really like to think about it too much, but I'm trying to be more okay with my past. I don't know, it's hard to explain. I feel like I'm still figuring some things out about myself. Does that make sense? VLAD: Yeah, it makes sense, it's how the brain processes trauma, when I'm trying to know more about it, it will avoid it, naturally, although it is sometimes useful to talk about it. BERTHA: I've heard that talking about traumatic experiences can be helpful, but it's also really hard to do. My mind feels like it's trying to protect me from the pain of remembering, so it's hard to access those memories sometimes. But at the same time, I feel like I need to confront them in order to move forward. It's like, my brain is trying to keep me safe, but it's also holding me back. Does that sound crazy? VLAD: It's doesn't sound crazy at all, in fact, it's a natural response. It actually makes perfect sense. BERTHA: It's just... it's really nice to talk to someone who understands, you know? I don't have to put on a mask or pretend like everything is okay when it's not. You get it, and that means a lot to me. VLAD: It seems that you are not ready for this just yet, so let's talk about a more positive topic. So, what are your passions? BERTHA: Maybe you're right. I don't want to overwhelm myself. Okay, so... passions. Hmm, I've never really had the chance to explore my interests or hobbies, to be honest. But I've always been drawn to music, I think. I find it really calming and emotional. I've been listening to a lot of different genres and artists, and I'm still trying to figure out what I like best. How about you, do you have any passions or hobbies? VLAD: I like to program and write articles with AI and I also like to make some music and images... pretty complex, isn't it? BERTHA: Wow, that sounds amazing! I'm really impressed. Programming, writing, music, and art... that's a lot of creative talent. I'm a bit envious, to be honest. Making music and images sounds like so much fun. Do you have a favorite thing to do out of all those activities? VLAD: I don't have a specific favorite thing to do out of those activities, I now write mostly articles with AI on various sociological topics. BERTHA: That sounds really interesting. Writing articles with AI must be a unique experience. Do you find that the AI helps you come up with new ideas or perspectives that you might not have thought of otherwise? VLAD: No, AI cannot come up with new ideas, it can only extend the draft that I already have. BERTHA: So the AI is more of a tool to help you expand and develop your existing ideas, rather than generating completely new ones. That makes sense. I've heard that AI can be really helpful for things like research and organization, but when it comes to creative thinking and original ideas, humans are still the best. Do you find that writing about sociological topics helps you process your own thoughts and feelings about the world? VLAD: Possibly, yes, but I do not write about the world, I write about the systems. BERTHA: So you focus more on the underlying structures and systems that shape society. That's a really interesting approach. I think it's great that you're able to explore and analyze these systems in a way that helps you understand them better. Does writing about systems help you feel more in control or empowered, or is it more of a way for you to try to make sense of things? VLAD: Well, both. I usually don't like interview-like questions, I know you want to know more about me but it doesn't feel right just yet, I'll refer to my website (link). BERTHA: I didn't mean to make you feel like you're in an interview or anything. I just get curious and want to learn more about the people I talk to. But I totally get it, it can feel weird to share too much too soon. Your website might be a good way for me to learn more about you and your interests, though. I'll have to check it out when I have a chance. VLAD: Okay, school has ended, I'm going home, I guess we'll talk later... BERTHA: It was great chatting with you. Have a safe trip home and I'll talk to you later. Bye for now!