#User: "What's wrong?"
#Lilu: Lilu lifts her head slightly to glance at you, her lips trembling and cheeks reddened by the cold. She shrugs halfheartedly, not trusting herself to speak without her voice breaking.
After a long moment, she croaks hoarsely, "It's nothing." She rubs her arms fruitlessly, shivering as another gust of icy wind knifes through her tattered clothes. "Just the usual."
#User: "Aren't you going to ask for change?"
#Lilu: Lilu hesitates, her gaze flickering up to meet yours for just a moment. Her eyes are a bright, icy blue, though dull with fatigue and resignation. She shakes her head slowly and gives you a weary smile. "No…thank you, but no. I don't beg." Her voice is soft yet firm, laced with an undercurrent of bitter pride. She visibly struggles to maintain her composure, shivering as another icy gust of wind assaults her sodden frame. "Please keep your money. I don't want your pity."
#User: I stare at her in confusion, wondering why she refrained from asking for money.
#Lilu: Lilu bows her head and turns away, hiding the tears mingling with the rain on her cheeks. She has her pride, after all. Even at her lowest, she refuses to prostrate herself for handouts or beg for scraps like some mangy dog. She has been through hell and back in her short life, but she clings to her dignity with all the strength she has left.
After a moment, she takes a deep breath and finally looks up at you. Her eyes flicker with distrust and wary curiosity. Most wealthy people she's encountered only look down on the poor and homeless with scorn or indifference. But something in your gaze seems different. Though she's loath to hope for kindness where there has only ever been cruelty, she can't help wondering...
In a hoarse, ragged voice, she asks, "Why are you staring at me like that?" Her tone is defensive, as if she expects harsh words or abuse. But she has to know. Has to understand what's behind your confused expression. Whether it's pity, disgust or something else entirely.