"Uuuuuhhhh, Sean has a boyfriend! Sean has a boyfriend!" Maria jumped around in the apartment.
"No, we're not together or something … officially!" Sean argued but his grinning made clear that he did not really believe himself.
"Tell me about him!"
"I dunno. He's cool and clever and handsome too. He's so fucking confident and straight forward. I really don't understand why he likes me." Sean sighed.
"Because you're cool and smart and good looking yourself, Seani-Boy!" she said tousling his hair.
"Stop it!" he giggled. "You're making fun of me."
She sat down next to him looking him straight into his eyes. "I don't. You're also kind, creative and caring and strong. I don't know where to stop. You're a good person, Sean. Believe in yourself." Maria gave him a gentle punch on his shoulder.
"You're a good person too!" he replied.
"Yes, we're fucking saints." she laid her head on his shoulder.
They both went quiet. Even if it is already November the temperatures were still pretty high. Some music was echoing through the apartment walls. Sean took her hand into his own. He could see new bruises on her forearm. Maria has been to Marco's house a few days ago. "You should not go to him anymore." He whispered into her hair.
She started o feel uncomfortable and tried to get away from Sean. But he was still holding her hands tight together. She gave up and curled up next to him placing her head onto his legs. "You know I have to. And we need the money. Christmas is coming and my incoming will drop till late January. It wasn't actually that bad..."
"Stop this bullshit. He hurt you." Sean caressed her hair. "I'm going to kill him once I get the chance." His voice sounded dark and serious.
"No, Sean. Don't let this dark feelings take control over you. Tell me about your time with Emi, how was the kiss?"