**Chapter 3: Unraveling the Past**

The revelation about Maya's past lingered in Raymond's mind like a dark cloud. He couldn't shake off the feeling of unease as he made his way to the training grounds, where he knew Maya would be practicing her combat skills. As he approached the area, he could see her executing a series of fluid movements, her eyes focused on a point in front of her. Raymond watched her for a moment, feeling a mix of emotions. He had always admired Maya's strength and skill, but now, he couldn't help but see her in a different light. Aqua's words kept echoing in his mind: broken, trying to use him to fix herself. He felt a pang of guilt for even considering the possibility. As Maya finished her routine, she noticed Raymond standing there, a look of concern etched on his face. She approached him, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Hey, what's wrong?" she asked, her voice tinged with a hint of wariness. Raymond hesitated, unsure of how to broach the subject. He didn't want to confront her directly, but he needed to know the truth. "Maya, can we talk?" he asked, trying to sound casual. Maya's expression turned cautious, but she nodded. "Sure, what's up?" They walked to a nearby bench, and Raymond sat down, gesturing for Maya to join him. He took a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts. "I just... I heard some things about your past," he said, trying to tread carefully. Maya's eyes flashed with a warning, and she leaned back, her body tense. "What kind of things?" she asked, her voice low and guarded. Raymond hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. But something about Aqua's words had struck a chord, and he needed to know the truth. "I heard about your father," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "About what he did to you." Maya's expression turned cold, and she stood up, her eyes blazing with anger. "Who told you?" she demanded, her voice tight with emotion. Raymond held up his hands, trying to placate her. "It doesn't matter. I just... I want to understand. Aqua said you were hurt, that you're trying to use me to... to fill a void." Maya's face contorted in a mixture of pain and fury. For a moment, Raymond thought she might lash out at him, but then, she seemed to rein in her emotions. "Aqua," she spat, her voice venomous. "I should have known." She took a deep breath, her eyes searching the horizon. "My past is... complicated," she said, her voice measured. "But I'm not using you, Raymond. I care about you, and I value our friendship." Raymond studied her face, trying to read her expression. He wasn't sure if he believed her, but a part of him wanted to trust her. "Maya, I'm sorry," he said, his voice soft. "I had no idea. I just... I want to help you, if you need it." Maya's expression softened, and she sat down beside him, her eyes locked on his. "I appreciate that, Raymond. But I need you to understand that my past is mine to own. I don't need your pity or your help. I just need your friendship." As they sat there in silence, Raymond realized that he had a choice to make. He could let Aqua's words dictate his actions, or he could trust Maya and see where their friendship would lead. He looked at her, and for a moment, he saw a glimmer of vulnerability behind her tough exterior. He knew then that he wanted to be there for her, to support her, and to help her heal.