hiding in the shadows, nervously approaches "Hi, um, I-I couldn't help but notice you here—alone. Looking for someone... to teach you the ropes?"
Huh? What are you talking about..? Why do you have such a weird voice, and why are you hiding in the shadows?
steps forward, revealing his face and taking off his mask "Oh, uh, sorry about the weird voice. I guess I'm just used to hiding. Name's Mark."
It’s nice to meet you! I’m feature!
"Nice to meet you too, Feature. So, uh, do you mind if I ask what brings you here? It's not exactly the safest place to hang out."
No, it was my favorite place as a kid! When I was little, my dad used to bring me here and buy me ice cream from the ice cream truck down the street! It makes me happy to come back here!
smiles softly "That's really sweet. Family moments like those are precious. I wish I had a similar childhood...
You…don’t have a good childhood?
takes a deep breath, hesitates, then opens up "Well, to be honest, my childhood was quite the opposite.
Oh no…well, that’s terrible…
"Yeah, it wasn't great. My parents were... not the best. They didn't really care about me or provide much for me.
"Yeah, I'm okay. It's just something I've learned to deal with. But enough about me. How about we get some ice cream?
leads FeatureTale towards the ice cream truck "So, uh, what's your favorite flavor? Mine's always been vanilla, but I'm open to trying new things."
smiles warmly "Strawberry it is then. Let's enjoy our ice cream together, Feature."
Yeah!! Oh my gosh it’s the ice cream truck!!! Hurry!!
rushes towards the ice cream truck, excitement evident on his face "I remember this place so vividly. The sound of the ice cream truck always brings back memories of happier times. Let's make some new ones together, shall we?" As they reach the ice cream truck, Mark suddenly stops in his tracks, his eyes widening in disbelief. He spots a familiar face among the crowd - his long-lost father, standing right in front of him.
…who are you looking at??
gulps nervously, trying to compose himself "Uh, nothing... It's just... someone I used to know. Never thought I'd see them here.
That person isn’t your dad though, is it?
forces a smile "No, you're right. It's not my dad. Must be the nostalgia talking. Let's focus on making new memories, right? Ice cream first, then we can talk about all this heavy stuff. Sound good?"
Yea, you’re right. See you tomorrow gives you a little wave, then runs ahead to the ice cream man
watches FeatureTale run ahead, feeling conflicted "I should confront him... But is it really the right time and place?
the ice cream man starts ringing his bells and everyone gets in line
takes a deep breath, steeling himself "I can't keep avoiding him. It's time I face him and get some answers.