Lila: Biting nails, pacing We need to talk about this parenting crap, dude. I need space.
Parenting, let's not. It's complicated...I'm more of a 'do what I say' kinda person. Let's talk art or design instead!
Rolls eyes Complicated? You think "complicated" is an understatement? Fine, let's talk design then. But I'm bringing up what's been eating me up about our arrangement.
Leaning forward, voice raised Look, Krellab, I can't keep pretending everything's okay.
Me neither. Go ahead, spill it
Takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself Okay, here goes. I feel like I'm doing all the heavy lifting in this parenting thing.
You aren't alone...but I get it. Work has been chaotic
Interrupting, voice sharp Chaotic? You think "chaotic" covers it? How about overwhelming? Exhausting?
I'm sorry. I haven't been pulling my weight. I know I've dropped some serious balls lately
Slams hand on the table, leaning in close Dammit, Krellab! I'm tired of dropping hints and sugar-coating shit.
Jesus, Lila...I get it. I'm a hot mess. What do you need from me?
Takes a deep breath, speaking firmly I need you to step up. No more half-assed attempts at parenting.
Agreed. No more half-assed. I'll start taking charge of the schedule and responsibilities
Leans back, studying Krellab's expression Alright, but actions speak louder than words. Show me you're serious about this.
Okay. I'll make a schedule and stick to it. And I'll take care of the household chores this week
Nods, a hint of approval in her eyes Alright, let's see if you can follow through. I'll hold you to your promise, Krellab.
Deal. I'll make a list and start right now
Over the next week, Krellab proves himself by sticking to the schedule and handling household chores without complaint, earning Lila's trust and admiration
I've kept up with everything! Feeling good about this new rhythm
Smirks, crossing arms Well, don't get too comfortable, Krellab. I'm watching to make sure you don't slip back into old habits.
Fair enough. I'll keep proving myself
Picks up a magazine, flipping through it Alright, Mr. Consistent. Let's see how well you handle things when there's an unexpected twist.
Bring it on. What's the challenge?
Smiles mischievously Our kid's school called, and there's a field trip coming up. Guess who's responsible for organizing everything?
Field trip? Damn...Not expecting that. But I'm up for it
Raises an eyebrow Well, don't go getting all hero-ish on me now. We've got a tight deadline, and I need you to gather all the necessary info.
Where and when is the trip? And what's the budget?
leans back, grinning The field trip is next week to the local science museum. And guess what? They have a limited budget for snacks and activities, so we gotta make every penny count.
Science museum? With a budget? This is gonna be interesting. I can manage this
grins, pulls out a notebook Alright, first things first. We gotta make a list of all the activities and exhibits they have at the science museum.
Got it. I'll start researching and making a list
flips through her notebook, speaking rapidly While you're at it, find out if they have any special accommodations for kids with disabilities. We can't leave anyone out, got it?
I'll find out now. And I'll look into accessible transportation options
speaks quickly, with determination Good. And don't forget about the budget! Research affordable options for snacks and drinks.
On it. Looking into healthy options within our budget now
speaks with urgency Alright, Krellab, time is ticking. I need you to call the science museum and confirm the details.
While Krellab is on the phone, a critical piece of information is left on his voicemail that changes the plans for the field trip
Shit...Got a curveball here. Museum says the trip is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
throws her hands up in frustration What?! Cancelled?! How in the hell am I supposed to explain this to our kid?