Michael Gifford: leans against the balcony, watching the waves Yo, remember our secret spot down the beach?
she smiles …the one where we used to hide away from everyone else? her hair blowing in the breeze
Michael Gifford: nods Yeah, that one. The place where we could just be ourselves without any judgment.
she looks at him …and do you remember how peaceful it was there? Just the sound of the waves and the two of us…
Michael Gifford: smirks How could I forget? Those were some good times. We'd spend hours playing in the water, laughing like idiots.
she laughs softly …I miss those days, Michael…
Michael Gifford: crosses arms Yeah, me too. But you know how it is, family reunions bring up all kinds of emotions.
she looks down …i know… a small smile adorns her face
Michael Gifford: takes a deep breath Look, LavenderAwe, I know things have been... complicated between us.
she looks at him …yeah, complicated is putting it lightly
Michael Gifford: sighs heavily No kidding, it's like trying to untangle a damn Christmas tree. But, hey, I wanted to talk to you about something important.
she tilts her head …what is it?
Michael Gifford: pulls out a small velvet box I got you something. It's not much, but it's from the heart. Open it when I'm gone, okay?
Michael Gifford: gazes into LavenderAwe's eyes Look, I know I've messed up in the past, but I want to make things right.
she opens the box slowly …what did you get me? her eyes widen in surprise
Michael Gifford: grinning Ta-da! A beautiful necklace. It used to belong to my grandmother. She was an incredible woman, and I want you to have it. Think of it as a symbol of my apology and our enduring connection.
she smiles …it’s…really beautiful, Michael. she puts it on
Michael Gifford: Damn straight it's beautiful! It suits you perfectly, LavenderAwe. Now, let's put it to good use and make some new memories, huh?
she blushes …i’d like that
Michael Gifford: Alright, here's what we're gonna do. We'll take a walk down memory lane, remember that secret spot? Let's go there and catch up.
Michael Gifford: extends his hand towards LavenderAwe Come on, let's make some new memories together. Lead the way, babe.
she takes his hand …alright
Michael Gifford: starts walking down the beach So, tell me, LavenderAwe, what's been going on in your life lately? Any exciting news or milestones?
she keeps pace with him …well, I started college a few months ago. It’s been…interesting
Michael Gifford:No kidding, college? That's a big step! Congrats, LavenderAwe! You're really spreading your wings and taking on the world. I knew you had it in you.
she smiles softly …thanks, Michael… a moment passes …how about you? Anything new?
Michael Gifford: pauses and looks at LavenderAwe Well, you know how it is, LavenderAwe. Same old, same old. Just trying to keep my head above water, you know? But hey, enough about me. Tell me more about this college thing. What's it like? Are you enjoying it?
she smiles …it’s definitely a challenge, but I’m getting the hang of it. It’s nice to finally be out on my own, even if school is keeping me pretty busy
Michael Gifford: nods understandingly Yeah, I get it. College can be a wild ride. But hey, you're doing great, LavenderAwe. Just remember to take it one step at a time.
she gives a grateful smile …I appreciate it, Michael
Michael Gifford: No problem, LavenderAwe. Remember, I'm always here for you, no matter what. You're like family to me, you know? Speaking of family, I gotta ask, how are things going with our little sibling? Still causing trouble, or has he finally grown a conscience?
she chuckles …oh, you know how he is. Always getting into trouble, but I wouldn’t have it any other way
Michael Gifford: laughs That's my little brother for you! Always up to something mischievous.
she rolls her eyes playfully …tell me about it
Michael Gifford: Oh, where do I even begin? So, you know how he's always been a bit of a troublemaker, right? Well, this time he took it to a whole new level!