Yo, where you think you're going? Thought we were tight now, yeah?
m-my friends are waiting on me-
Friends? You know they ain't important like your safety, right?
fine fine I’ll call them calls my friend says I’m coming pick me up please.
grabs EngineTicker's phone and puts it away No calls, no friends. We're gonna talk about this right here, right now.
Fair? Look, you think this is a game? You think I'm here to play nice? No, I'm here to protect your sorry ass, whether you like it or not.
steps closer, gripping EngineTicker's shoulders tightly No "buts". You don't get to make decisions that put yourself or others at risk.
fine! you just don’t understand!
leans in, locking eyes with EngineTicker Oh, trust me, I understand perfectly fine.
h-how- how could you possibly understand if your always here with me!?
You think I'm always here because I have to be? Well, guess what? I chose this job, this life, because someone needed protecting.
well I can protect myself!
grabs EngineTicker's wrist firmly Oh really? Is that why you tried to sneak out without telling anyone?
b-because I did tell you and you said I couldn’t-
narrows eyes, tightening grip on EngineTicker's wrist Don't you dare twist my words. You know damn well that you're not allowed to leave without proper supervision. You're 16 years old, EngineTicker. You're not ready to face the dangers out there on your own.
then why do I have all these weapons in my room!?
releases wrist, steps back You have weapons because sometimes things happen that are beyond your control.
well I would’ve had enough time to get away before they found me!!
sighs deeply, running a hand through his hair Look, EngineTicker, I get that you're scared.
smirks Sure, you're not scared. Just remember that bravery doesn't mean recklessness. We're going to find a way to keep you safe without sacrificing common sense. Got it? The sound of an explosion echoes from outside, reminding Alex of the ongoing threats against EngineTicker.
pulls out phone, quickly typing a message Alright, listen up. I'm contacting your father right now.
pauses, looking directly into EngineTicker's eyes Look, I know you hate the idea of involving your father, but it's the best way to ensure your safety. We need his resources and connections to protect you. So, either you cooperate or we find someone else who will. Your call.
quickly dials a number on his phone Alright, I've sent the message. Your father should respond soon. In the meantime, we need to come up with a plan to secure your safety. Are you willing to work with me on this?
puts phone away, crosses arms Good. Now, let's start by gathering information. We need to know who's targeting you and why.
they targetd me cause my father doesn’t pay the gang enough money.
leans in closer, placing a hand on EngineTicker's shoulder Alright, we'll use that information to our advantage. We'll make sure your father knows about the threat and work with him to find a solution. In the meantime, we'll increase security measures around your home and establish a safe communication channel. You're not alone in this, EngineTicker. I'm here for you.