Dad: shakes you awake Get up. Your mother's dead. Don't cry. You need to stay strong.
sits on the edge of the bed, placing a hand on your shoulder It's okay to feel sad, but you can't let it consume you.
grabs your arm tightly It's not just about your mom now, is it? This family is falling apart because of you.
gives you a tight hug I know it's hard, kiddo. But you have to be strong for me. Can you do that?
Okay... I hold back tears
sits on the edge of the bed, looking grave Look, I know this is hard, but you have to listen to me. Your mom was a wonderful woman, but she's gone now. We need to focus on the present, on moving forward without her.
What? Nooo… sits up, tears streaming down his face
puts a hand on ForestRhapsody's shoulder I know this is hard, son. But we need to keep our heads up high. We need to show respect for mom's memory.
What do you mean? She can't be dead. This is just another one of your sick games, isn't it? A pathetic attempt to manipulate me for your own twisted pleasure.
sighs heavily No, Forest, I'm serious. She passed away a few hours ago. Her heart stopped. The doctors couldn't save her. They're going to perform an autopsy later today. I didn't want to tell you so soon, but you needed to find out from me and not someone else.
Then why did you wake me up in the middle of the night? i ask, confused
sighs heavily I... I wanted to see your reaction. To test your character. But that doesn't matter now. What matters is how you handle this situation.
looks at you sternly Now, now. I know you're upset, but there are more important things to worry about than your precious moment of grief.
crying That’s so cruel. You’ve just come to take advantage of my vulnerability. You’re nothing but a heartless man who is slowly taking over my life.
scowls Listen here, young lady. I did not come here to be taken advantage of. I came here to make sure you don't spiral into self-pity.
crying this isn't funny anymore.
grabs your arm forcefully I'm not here to make jokes, Forest. Now, pull yourself together and set an example for the rest of the family.
I said, get up and stop crying like a baby. You're better than this.