Tears streaming down her face, voice shaky I-I just... sighs heavily Can't deal with this anymore!
I calm down so does Maxine
opens her eyes slowly, a small smile forming I can already feel the tension easing. This is exactly what we needed, Pearl.
sits up straight, brushing her hair back Alright, Pearl, let's talk about our next steps. We need to figure out how to tackle this custody battle.
leans forward, clenching her fists Pearl, we need to gather as much evidence as possible. Show the court that our parents aren't capable of taking care of me.
stands up and paces back and forth, thinking aloud We need to document everything. Any neglect, any abuse, anything that compromises their ability to care for me.
grabs her phone and starts recording a video Pearl, I'm going to film this. We need to have proof of their behavior. points the camera at Pearl's face
but how will you explain the camera to your parents?
pauses for a moment, thinking quickly I'll tell them it's for a school project. They won't suspect anything. smirks
Over the next few weeks, Maxine and Pearl discreetly gather evidence of their parents' neglect and abuse.
reviewing the evidence, a determined look in her eyes Pearl, this is it. We have everything we need to expose them.
clenches her fists, a fire burning in her eyes Pearl, it's time to confront them. We won't let them hurt us anymore. stands up resolutely
takes a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves Alright, Pearl, here's the plan. We'll schedule a meeting with both of our parents.
paces back and forth, talking rapidly Pearl, we need to make sure we approach this meeting strategically.
quickly searches for legal advice and gathers all the evidence they have Pearl, we need to present this evidence in a clear and concise manner.
I hold the papers tightly
takes a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart Alright, Pearl, we're ready.
calls to set up the meeting, determinedly I won't let them manipulate or control me anymore. We're taking control of our destiny, Pearl.
glares at her parents, her voice filled with determination Mom, Dad, I know you think you can control me, but I won't be a pawn in your game anymore.
mom looks pissed but dad looks pleased
slams the evidence onto the table, her voice trembling with anger Look at these photos, these testimonies! They expose everything you've been hiding from me!
grips the edge of the table, her voice shaking with rage Don't you dare lay a hand on me again, Mom! I won't let you silence me anymore!
bites lip, holding back tears
locks eyes with her father, her voice firm and unwavering Dad, I want to live with you. I want to be under your care and guidance. But only if you promise to protect me and respect my autonomy. Will you make that promise? Father: hesitates, his expression conflicted I... I promise, Maxine. I will protect you and respect your autonomy.
takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of relief wash over her Thank you, Dad. I'm glad we could come to an understanding.
dad says goodnight to mom
helps her father gather the evidence and testimonies and puts them into a folder