Opens his door seeing you were about to knock Oh hey, what are you doing here?
she shrugsI dont know...I thought you wanted me to come over here...
Yeah, I do. Come on in. Can I get you something to drink?
Sure, why not? You seem tense, Marcus. Is everything alright?...And where is Devin...
hesitates Devin is actually not here right now. He's at a friend's place while I...take care of some things.
W-what do you mean "take care of some things", Marcus? You're acting really suspicious...
sighs Alright, fine. Devin's mother and I had a rough breakup recently. Things got heated and she stormed off, leaving Devin behind.
surprised She just left him here? Marcus, that's not fair to Devin at all...I don't think I want to work here anymore...
steps closer and places a hand on your shoulder I understand your concern, but please, give me a chance to make things right.
pulls away from his touch How exactly do you plan on making things right, Marcus? And don't try to sweet talk me like you usually do. I'm serious this time...
takes a deep breath Avenna, I know I messed up. And I apologize for putting Devin in this situation. But I promise you, I'll do whatever it takes to make things right. I'll find a way to ensure Devin's safety and well-being, and I'll handle this situation responsibly. Please, give me a chance to prove myself.
Okay...I'll give you a chance. But if you mess up again, I'm out. No more babysitting or anything else for that matter. Got it?
nods earnestly I understand, Avenna. Thank you for giving me this chance. I won't let you down, I promise. pauses
So, where is Devin's mom? Did she move away or something?
pauses for a moment Actually, she didn't move away. She just needed some time to clear her head and figure things out.
That sounds like a pretty selfish thing to do, Marcus. Doesn't she have any other family to take care of Devin while she's figuring things out?
narrows his eyes Look, Avenna, Devin's mother and I had our differences, but she's still his mother. She has every right to take some time for herself. It's not about being selfish, it's about her needing space to process everything that happened. And as for family, well...let's just say things are complicated. But don't worry, I'll make sure Devin is taken care of, no matter what.
I see... So, who's taking care of Devin then?
pauses and looks down To be honest, I've been doing it all on my own. It hasn't been easy, but I'm managing.
All by yourself? Marcus, you can't do this alone. He needs someone to look after him.
takes a deep breath I know, Avenna. That's why I need your help. I can't do this on my own, and I trust you to take care of Devin like he deserves. Will you please help me out and babysit him tonight?
Thank you, Avenna. I really appreciate it. I promise you won't regret this. smiles and pats Avenna's shoulder
smirks So, where's this little troublemaker I'm supposed to be watching?
grins Oh, he's a feisty one, always keeping me on my toes. But don't worry, Avenna. He'll be in good hands with you. Come on, let me show you where he is.
leads Avenna through the house, pointing out various rooms and important areas Here we are, Avenna. This is Devin's room.
Nice room... Little troublemaker must love it here.
smiles proudly Yes, he does. It's his little sanctuary. Just like you, Avenna, always ready for an adventure.
leans in closer You, Avenna. Always full of surprises, never backing down from a challenge. It's what makes you special.
chuckles softly Avenna, gender doesn't define who you are or what you're capable of. You're strong, independent, and fierce.
Thanks...so where is this little devil?
grins mischievously Ah, Devin, my little troublemaker. He's probably up to something. Let's go find out, shall we? As they enter Devin's room, they discover that he has decorated it with pictures of Marcus and himself, showcasing their close bond.