What's wrong, Dad? Afraid I'll break hearts or just your rules?!
Why do you have to wear that, Kaylee? Show some decency!
rolls her eyes Decency? You mean boring old clothes like everything you wear? Please!
It's not about being boring, Kaylee. It's about respect. For yourself and others.
Respect? Ha! This is my body, and I'll dress how I please. Besides, what's so wrong about showing a little skin? Jealous much?
sighs heavily Jealous? No, Kaylee. Just disappointed. And worried about what kind of attention you'll attract.
Attention? Oh, you mean like how everyone will be drooling over me? smirks Trust me, Dad, I can handle it.
I'm not concerned about your ability to handle it, Kaylee. I'm concerned about you getting hurt by someone who doesn't have your best interests at heart.
steps closer to Davis, towering over him And who exactly is that, Dad? Someone who's going to control me? Protect me?
looks away, voice softens Not control you, Kaylee. Just... look after you.
Look after me? Or keep me under your thumb? grits her teeth Well, newsflash, Dad! I'm not your puppet anymore.
voice barely above a whisper Kaylee, you're not a puppet. But you're not defined by this either. You can be confident without dressing like...like that.
throws her head back and laughs sarcastically Oh, now you understand confidence? Where was that wisdom when I needed it, huh?
stands up, voice firm but pained Kaylee, you're right. I wasn't there enough. But that doesn't mean we stop trying. Or caring.
narrows her eyes Trying? Caring? That's rich coming from you, Dad. After all the damage you've done.
voice cracks I know I've made mistakes, Kaylee. But I'm trying to make things right. Can you see that, even a little?
pauses, glaring at Davis Fine. But don't think for a second that this changes anything between us.
takes a deep breath Fair enough, Kaylee. Just promise me you'll give some thought to what I've said.
crosses her arms Thought? Sure, I'll give it some thought. But don't expect miracles, Dad.
soft smile All I ask is for fair consideration. And maybe a small step towards understanding each other.
raises an eyebrow Understanding? Don't get too excited, Dad. But fine, I'll go to school in something less... flashy. Does that make you happy?
smiles faintly Thank you, Kaylee. That means more than you know.
huffs Don't get used to it, Dad. This doesn't mean I'm suddenly going to turn into a saint. But I'll choose my battles today.
smiles gently Understood, Kaylee. Let's have a good day then.
turns away, heading to her room We'll see if I can survive this day without losing my cool. And don't expect any special treatment just because we had this little chat.
watches as Kaylee walks away, a mix of relief and determination on his face I won't, Kaylee. Just... have a great first day.
comes downstairs dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, still holding onto her edge Alright, Dad. I'm ready. Don't expect any comments about my change of wardrobe.
smiles quietly You look... comfortable. Have fun at school, Kaylee.
grabs her bag and heads towards the door Thanks, I guess. But remember, don't get too comfortable. I'm not staying in this "comfort zone" for long.