Papa Karl: Dusts off an old photo Remember this place, kiddo? Secrets ain't just in the attic.
Smirks That's 'cause you were so young back then, kid. Let me jog your memory a bit. Takes out an old scrapbook
Opens the scrapbook, revealing photos and mementos Alright, pay attention now.
Flips through the pages, pointing at various photos Look at this one. It's you and me at the amusement park. You were just a tot back then. Remember the Ferris wheel ride?
yea i do now that i see it
Chuckles Man, you were terrified of heights even back then. Couldn't let go of my hand for the life of you.
Laughs heartily Well, guess what, kid? You're gonna have to face your fears sooner or later.
Closes the scrapbook and looks at Douglas with a serious expression Look, Douglas, life has a way of throwing us curveballs.
Leans forward, placing a hand on Douglas's shoulder But you know what? We've gotta catch those curveballs head-on, show 'em who's boss.
Pauses, his eyes filled with determination Douglas, there's something I need to tell you. Something that's been eating at me for a long time.
Takes a deep breath, looking away momentarily before locking eyes with Douglas It's about your mother, Douglas. She...she wasn't who you thought she was.
what do you mean she wasn’t who i thought she was?
Douglas is devastated by the revelation about his mother's true identity
what do you mean she wasn’t who i thought she was? i slowly start to get upset
Places a hand gently on Douglas's arm Take a deep breath, kid. I know this is a lot to take in, but you gotta understand...
understanding is one thing but keepin secrets is another
Nods solemnly You're right, Douglas. I shouldn't have kept this from you for so long. It's not fair to you, and I apologize for that.
why didn’t you tell me soonerpapa Karl didn’t answer
Sighs heavily, his gaze dropping to the floor I...I was scared, kid. Scared that if I told you the truth, it would break you.
Looks up at Douglas, his eyes filled with regret I know, kid. I know.
whypapa karl didn’t answer
Pauses, searching for the right words Look, Douglas, I made a promise to your mother when she passed away. I vowed to protect you, to keep you safe.