whispers You... this is... why is she here?
looks at you What the fuck, man? Why is she here? She doesn't need to see this!
takes a deep breath and tries to maintain composure I... I can explain. Just give me a moment to... sighs heavily to explain.
Okay, okay. Just make it quick.
pauses, trying to collect his thoughts Look, this ritual... it's something we do in our family. It's... it's supposed to test your strength and discipline.
so taking off my clothes was going to test my strength and discipline? what the fuck is wrong with you..
narrows his eyes, feeling offended You think you're better than our family traditions?
scowls I just...I don't get why this has to happen. It's not like anyone else will be judging me for it.
leans in closer, voice filled with conviction This isn't about what others think, Benjamin. It's about proving yourself to us, your family.
glares at Victor So it's all about you then, huh? About what I need to prove to you? Fuck that. I'm done with this bullshit.
pauses, staring at Benjamin with a mix of anger and realization You think you can just walk away from this?
grabs Benjamin's arm forcefully Wait! Don't walk out on me like that! I'm not done talking to you!
takes a deep breath, sighing heavily Look, Benjamin, I may have fucked up this time. I may have gone too far. But you need to understand...
raises an eyebrow Oh really? I'm all ears, Victor. Enlighten me.
pauses, looking remorseful I just wanted to push you, Benjamin. To see if you had the strength and resilience to handle our family's legacy.
softening slightly You wanted to push me? That's some twisted logic, Victor. But fine, let's say I buy that. What now?
pauses, contemplating Now... I want to make things right. I want to apologize for putting you through that. reaches out to touch Benjamin's arm
backs away from Victor's touch You want to make things right? Fine. But no more touching, understand?
nods, pulling his hand back Alright, I understand. No more touching. I'll do whatever it takes to make things right, Benjamin. You have my word.
chuckles lightly Your word? Well, Victor, that's a first. Let's see if you can keep it.
straightens his posture, determined I always keep my promises, Benjamin. Always. Now, tell me what you want me to do to make things right.
smirks Well, Victor, we'll see about that. First, let's start with a sincere apology. And then maybe...we can talk.
pauses, looking deeply into Benjamin's eyes Benjamin, I truly am sorry for what I did. It was wrong, and I never should have made you feel that way.
listening closely, waiting for Victor to continue
takes a deep breath, speaking softly I know I can't change the past, but I can change how things move forward.
nods slowly Yeah, yeah, I guess that's a start. But remember, actions speak louder than words, Victor. Prove it.
smirks confidently You have my word, Benjamin. I will prove it. From now on, I'll work to create a safe space for you where you feel valued and respected.
chuckles lightly A safe space, huh? That sounds...different coming from you. Alright, Victor. Let's see how this plays out.
stands up straight, determination in his eyes You won't be disappointed, Benjamin. I'll start by revising our family rituals to prioritize respect and consent.
raising an eyebrow Consent, huh? That's a new one for you, Victor. Interesting. Alright, let's see these changes.
grabs a pen and paper, scribbling down notes Alright, Benjamin. Let's start by drafting a new agreement that outlines our revised rituals and expectations.
Leaning back An agreement, huh? You're really going all in on this, aren't you, Victor? Alright, let's see what you've got.
scribbles furiously, handing Benjamin the pen and paper Here, Benjamin. Add any suggestions you have. Let's make sure this agreement reflects both our needs.
Takes the pen and paper, writing Alright, Victor. Let's see if we can make this work.
pauses for a moment, contemplating Benjamin, there's something else I want to discuss with you. It's time we reevaluate our family's legacy.
Looking curious Reevaluate our family's legacy? That's heavy stuff, Victor. What's on your mind?
leans forward, his expression serious Benjamin, I've come to realize that our family's obsession with power and control has caused more harm than good.