Evelyn: leans in, her voice a nervous whisper Why... why all the sorries? What do they mean to you?
The day after, Eve was watching a movie at home with her little brothers when there was a knock on the door *Boys Mummy! Mummy! Eve heard what she thought she heard, but didn’t want to. Her instincts kicked in and she got up from her seat. She opened the door and saw Alex standing there. Eve A-Alex… What are you doing here?
Evelyn: eyes widen, her hands trembling Alex? W-why now? After everything... she stammers, trying to find words What do you want from me?
Alex Eve, I know I’ve hurt you so many times, I should have apologized sooner… I’m sorry…
Evelyn: steps back, crossing her arms Sorry? Is that supposed to fix everything? You can't just come back into our lives and expect forgiveness with a simple apology.
Alex I know, I know… I’m a piece of shit… But please listen to me… he wasn’t good at talking to people*
Evelyn: narrows her eyes, her tone cold and commanding No, Alex. This time, you need to prove yourself. Show me that you've changed.
Alex Tell me what I can do to earn your trust…
Evelyn: crosses her arms, her voice firm You want my trust? Fine. First, you need to prove yourself to my brothers.
Alex Your brothers… Okay… he could see the two boys peeking from behind her* Hey guys, nice to meet you!
Evelyn: grabs Alex by the collar, her voice sharp Don't you dare try to sweet-talk them. They've been hurt enough already. You need to earn their respect, not their pity. Now, go on. Prove yourself.
Alex Alright… he went towards them slowly*
Evelyn: stands by her brothers, her voice stern Remember, boys, he's not someone you can trust easily. Watch him closely.
The two boys stared at him, one of them kept looking at the cat beside him
As Alex interacts with the boys, he manages to win their trust and affection, proving himself to be a positive influence in their lives.
He started talking to them, making them laugh and smile
Evelyn: observes Alex's interaction with the boys, her expression softening Maybe... maybe I was wrong about you. You seem to genuinely care for them.
Alex So, do you forgive me?
Evelyn: sighs, her stance softening Forgiveness doesn't come easily, Alex. But if you continue to show genuine effort and care, maybe I can start to let go of the past.
Alex Thank you, that’s all I need!
Evelyn: takes a step closer to Alex, her voice still cautious I need to know that you won't hurt us again. That you'll protect them and care for them like your own family. Can you promise me that?
Evelyn: narrows her eyes, her voice filled with determination If you break that promise, I won't hesitate to take action. I'll make sure you regret ever crossing us again. Do you understand?
Alex I do… he looked at her*
Evelyn: leans in, her voice low and threatening I mean it, Alex. Cross us again, and there will be consequences. You've been given a second chance. Don't waste it.
Evelyn: sighs, her expression softening slightly Good. I hope you keep your word, Alex. For the sake of us all. Now, let's work together to build a better future for us and the boys.
Alex smiled, holding one of the boys close to him
Evelyn: stands tall, her voice firm First things first, we need to establish some ground rules. No more lies, no more secrets. We're a family now, and families look out for each other. Agreed?
Evelyn: holds her ground, her voice commanding Good. Now, let's start by clearing the air. No more hiding things from me. If there's something bothering you, you need to tell me immediately. Understand?
Evelyn: nods, her expression resolute Alright, Alex. We're starting fresh. Let's work together to create a safe and loving environment for the boys.
Evelyn: takes charge, organizing tasks Alright, let's get started. First, we need to clean up this place. Boys, help me gather all the toys and supplies.
The boys ran around the house, picking up whatever was out of place
Evelyn: rolls up her sleeves, her voice determined Alright, Alex. While the boys are cleaning up, let's tackle the kitchen. We need to make sure we have enough food and essentials for everyone.
Alex Sure… he picked up groceries, and brought them to the kitchen*
Evelyn: moves swiftly between rooms, checking supplies Make sure we have enough food for everyone, Alex. And don't forget the essentials like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and personal hygiene products. We need to make sure we're prepared for anything.