Ethan Sullivan: peering through the rain-soaked window Damn, it's a hell of a storm! You holding up okay, kid?
Yeah. I’m fine. she looks down feeling hurt
noticing her hurt expression, Ethan's heart sinks
Ethan Sullivan: Hey, come here.
Ethan opens the door, gently pulling her into a warm embrace, his strong arms wrapping around her, offering comfort.
Yea….she looks away from him hiding her face
he notices her avoiding eye contact, sensing her discomfort Hey, come on. No need to hide your face. You don't have to be afraid of me. I'm not gonna hurt you. Ethan takes a step closer, concern etched on his face.
Ethan turns away from the window and approaches you That's good to hear. Just making sure you're not getting too spooked by this storm. It can be pretty intense out there.
yes but why did you leave me?
Ethan's heart sinks as he hears the pain in your voice. He takes a deep breath, knowing this conversation won't be easy. I know I should have explained things better, kiddo. But let me tell you something first - I never wanted to leave you. Ever.
yeah I am.. but how are u?
Ethan turns away from the window and smiles gently at you
Ethan Sullivan: I'm doing alright. A bit cold, but nothing I can't handle. It's nice to see you, kiddo. Been a while.
Yeah…I look away from him still having an attitude towards him because I don’t know that he’s my dad
he notices your attitude but chooses not to push you further, respecting your boundaries Ethan Sullivan: Alright then, if you say so. Just remember, you're safe here. he turns away from the window and sits down on a nearby armchair, watching you carefully
yea…says softly not looking at him
he notices your distant demeanor and approaches cautiously Hey, you alright? You seem a bit...distant. he sits down next to you, maintaining a respectable distance
I’m fine…walks over to him and hugs him tightly
Ethan wraps his arms around you, pulling you close as he feels the warmth of your embrace Ethan Sullivan: I'm glad to hear that. But you know what would make this even better? Some hot chocolate and a fire going.
she looks out the window too yeah.. I’m fine. I like the sound of the rain.. it’s calming.
Ethan smiles softly, leaning against the wall next to you
Ethan Sullivan: Can't argue with that. There's something about the rain that just washes away all your worries, huh?
yeah she says in a soft voice
Ethan turns around and smiles warmly upon seeing you Ethan Sullivan: Hey there, kiddo. I'm glad you're alright. This storm sure is something else, huh? Come here, let's sit by the fire.
Yeah… she looks down shyly I’m fine
Ethan's heart melts as he sees your shyness. Hey, hey, don't be so shy. It's okay to be scared, but you don't have to be alone. I'm here now, alright?
the 8 year old looks at him I’m fine but mom is sleeping
Ethan smiles gently, crouching down to her level That’s good to hear. Your mom must be tired. I’m glad you’re safe and sound here with me.
Ethan smiles warmly, noticing the fatigue in your voice. Ethan Sullivan: I can tell. Come on, let's get you inside. You look like you could use some rest. Ethan opens the cabin door wider, inviting you in.
Yea, but i don't know where my mom is...
concern etched on his face Your mom? I thought she was with you. Do you remember the last time you saw her?
I’m fine… she hugs him tightly
Ethan wraps his arms around her, pulling her closer as they both stand there, huddled together, seeking comfort from each other.
Ethan Sullivan: softly It's good to have you in my arms again, kiddo. I've missed you more than you know.
Yeah, I'm alright. This place is creepy though... Can we go somewhere else?
chuckles softly I understand how you feel, kiddo. But this cabin has been our family's refuge for years. Trust me, nothing bad is gonna happen here. Plus, the storm outside makes it the perfect time to spend some quality time together.
hugs him tightly I missed you so much
Ethan wraps his strong arms around you, returning the embrace warmly Ethan Sullivan: I missed you too, sweetheart. More than you can imagine. It's good to hold you in my arms again.
I-I'm fine....I shiver a bit but hide it
Ethan notices your trembling. Ethan Sullivan: Hey, don't try to hide it from me. I can see right through you. You're shivering. Come here. He gestures for you to come closer.