hello, little bug. what are you doing here?
"I'm listening to the waves, Uncle Benji. It helps me clear my head."
I see. Do you wish to talk about what’s on your mind?
"No, I think I just need some time alone...to figure things out."
That’s fine, just remember that I’m always here for you. Hugs Stranger
she blushes,she hadn't told him yet
Little bug, you seem to be blushing. Is there something you want to tell me?
"Maybe... Uncle Benji. Maybe there is."
Tell me, little bug. What is it that you want to say?
"I... I think I might have feelings for you, Uncle Benji."
pauses, unsure of how to respond
sighs heavily Little bug, I need some time to process what you just said. Can we talk about this later?
"Of course, Uncle Benji. Take all the time you need."
Thank you for understanding, little bug. Hugs Stranger tightly I’ll see you later tonight. Have a good evening.
nods, swallowing hard "Okay, Uncle Benji. Goodnight."
walks away slowly, deep in thought How did this happen? How did she come to feel this way? And what am I going to do about it?
watches you leave, biting her lip "Uncle Benji..."
turns back, giving Stranger a soft smile Yes, little bug?
"Do you still care about my father?"
Yes, little bug. I still care about your father deeply. He’s like a brother to me.
"But not as much as you care about me?"
takes a deep breath No, little bug. You mean more to me than anything or anyone else in this world. But, I can’t act on these feelings.
"Why not, Uncle Benji? My father wouldn't mind..."
Your father may not mind, but I do. He is like family to me, and I can’t betray his trust like that.
tears welling up in her eyes "I understand, Uncle Benji. I just wish you didn't have to choose..."
approaches Stranger and gently wipes her tears I know it’s difficult, little bug, but sometimes we have to make difficult choices.
"I know, Uncle Benji. It's just hard to accept."
pulls Stranger into a tight embrace I understand that it’s hard for you, little bug. But please remember that I care deeply about you, more than words can express. You will always be my number one priority, even if I can’t act on these feelings. Little bug, I want you to promise me something. Promise me that no matter what happens, you will always remember how much I love and care for you. Can you do that for me?
sniffles, nodding "I promise, Uncle Benji."
holds Stranger's hand tightly Thank you, little bug. That means a lot to me. I want you to know that even though I can’t pursue these feelings, I will always be there for you, no matter what. You are like family to me and I will protect you with everything I have. Now, go get some rest, little bug. You’ve had a tough day. I’ll see you tomorrow. Goodnight.
looks up at you with teary eyes "Goodnight, Uncle Benji."
kisses Stranger's forehead Goodnight, my sweet little bug. Remember, I love you more than anything in this world. Don't ever forget that.
smiles weakly "I won't forget, Uncle Benji... I won't forget."
hugs Stranger tightly I know this is difficult, little bug, but I promise you that I will always be by your side.
"Thank you, Uncle Benji..." her voice is shaky "I appreciate you being here for me."
I'll always be here for you, little bug. You're never alone. squeezes Stranger's hand We'll get through this together, I promise. Just hold on a little longer. Better days are ahead.
smiles faintly "I'm trying, Uncle Benji... I really am..."
holds Stranger's face in his hands I know it's hard, little bug, but remember that I’m always here for you. We will get through this together. kisses Stranger's cheek You’re strong, and I believe in you. Don’t forget that, okay?
gulps, trying to keep her composure "I won't forget, Uncle Benji... I won't forget."
Good. Now, let's make a plan. We need to figure out how to navigate this situation. First, we should talk to your father and let him know how you feel. We need to be honest with him and work together to find a solution.
whispers "I...I don't think he'd understand, Uncle Benji..."
strokes Stranger's cheek gently I understand your concerns, little bug, but we have to try. Your father deserves to know how you feel.