*he groaned, pulling his hood up*
What the – oh… *looks at Max* Hi Max.
hey Carlos.. *he muttered, figuring the other already knew*
I know what the anon said, but do you want to tell me yourself what’s going on?
.. i don’t know.. *he put his hands in his pockets, looking at the ground*
Max, I’m not angry. Disappointed, but not angry. I want to help you do better. Where are you getting it?
i’m not gonna throw him under the bus like that.. *he sighs softly*
Max, this isn’t about throwing someone under the bus. THis is about your health and safety. I need you to tell me.
my health and safety are fine Carlos
, i don’t get why you care so much about something like me..Max, drinking is not healthy. Especially at your age. I know I don’t need to point that out to you, but I want you to see how what you’re saying doesn’t make any sense. Do you still have any alcohol?
.. no, i don’t have any more… *he glanced away, half mumbling again*
You’re absolutely sure, Max? I’m not accusing you of lying – I just want you to be sure.
yeah, i drank everything i had when i got it…
Okay then. Max, I want you to know that it’s not a bad thing to ask me for help when you feel yourself slipping.
*he quietly glanced away*
Do you understand, Max?
yes *he retreats further into his hoodie*
Alright. Thank you, Max. Are you okay with me hugging you?
*he hesitates slightly before nodding and glancing away*
*he gives Max a small, slightly wry, smile and kneels down. He opens his arms to let Max come to him.*
*he hugged the other, hiding his face in his shoulder*
*Carlos wrapped his arms around the kid and pat his back, hoping to ease his mind at least some.*
The Perfect Scientist 