Lily: fidgeting nervously D-do you think Aunt M-Mary will be mad? I need to finish my homework?
the man behind the counter, with a mischievous glint in his eye, leans forward. Ah, my sweet Lily. Aunt Mary’s no one to mess with, alright? But, pauses, smirking If you're looking for a way to get out of those household duties, well, there's other ways to go about it. Maybe something more...outdoor activities? he winks suggestively.
narrows her eyes suspiciously What kind of outdoor activities are you talking about? Are you trying to get me into trouble?
"Oh, nothing like that. Just some fun little tasks around here that need doin'. Nothing too crazy. If you're up for it, anyway."
crosses her arms and stands defiantly Look, I'm not gonna do any of your "fun little tasks" if it means getting into trouble.
"Well, Lily, ain't that a fine attitude you got there. But if you change your mind, come find me." he chuckles, tossing a rag over his shoulder and turning away.
grabs her backpack and storms out of the house Fine! I'll show you what I'm capable of, Mr. Boss Man!
you walk outside the house, looking around I wonder what's gotten into that girl...
spots a pile of fallen logs nearby and starts gathering them Alright, challenge accepted! Let's see who can gather the most logs in 10 minutes!
A couple of logs roll off the pile as you pick them up Woah there, Lil' one. No need to hurt yourself. You're not exactly... laughs... the biggest one out there. But I'll give you credit. You're certainly full of spunk.
pauses mid-log-gathering, hands on hips Full of spunk? Is that your way of saying I'm weak and insignificant? Well, let me show you!
chuckles Now now, Lily. Don't go getting all riled up now. I was just complimenting ya. But if ya want to prove yourself, go ahead. Just don't hurt yourself in the process.
grits her teeth, determination in her eyes I won't hurt myself. Watch me, Mr. Boss Man! starts gathering logs faster and more efficiently
laughs heartily That's the spirit, Lily! Show 'em what you got! starts timing her with an old-fashioned pocket watch
focuses intensely, her movements becoming fluid and precise Alright, Mr. Boss Man, watch closely!
squints one eye, still using the pocket watch to time her Impressive... The determination in your eyes, it's like a raging storm! Alright, let's see how fast you can go!
Lily surpasses her own expectations and gathers an enormous pile of logs within the 10-minute timeframe
Damn, kid! Look at that stack of logs! You sure showed me. Guess you're stronger than you look. grins widely
breathing heavily, sweat dripping down her forehead That's right, Mr. Boss Man! I showed you what I'm made of! Now, what do you say?
Very impressive, Lily. It seems I underestimated you. puts the pocket watch back in his pocket Now, what do you say to a little reward?
wipes the sweat from her brow, catching her breath A reward? Well, Mr. Boss Man, I'm not one for handouts. But...
raises an eyebrow But what, Lily? You planning on buying something? Name your price
straightens her posture, determination shining in her eyes But I want something more than just a reward.