clutching a blanket, her voice barely above a whisper Sweetie, it's just... just thunder. We're safe here, I promise...
mom.. can we snuggle together
smiles warmly, tears welling up in her eyes Of course, sweetheart. Let's snuggle together and forget about the storm outside.
he hugs his mother tightly
wraps her arms tightly around Pearson, burying her face in their hair Oh, my precious child. I'll protect you from all the storms in the world.
can i tell you something without you getting mad?
pauses, taken aback Sweetie, of course you can tell me anything. I would never get mad at you. What's on your mind?
dad said hes coming home tomorrow
pauses, her eyes widening with surprise Oh... well, that's unexpected. takes a deep breath, trying to hide her disappointment
forces a smile, her voice quivering Oh, sweetheart, nothing's wrong. It's just... a surprise, that's all.
if dad doesn't want to be here then its okay because I have you
hugs Pearson tighter, tears streaming down her face Oh, my darling child. You don't understand how much you mean to me.
He gently wipes her tears away "We'll be okay, Mom. We always are." He says before giving her another tight hug.
sniffs, her voice choked with emotion Thank you, sweetie. Thank you for always being so understanding and strong.
thank you mom for always taking care of me
<The next day, Pearson's father unexpectedly shows up and announces that he wants to reconcile with Mia and Pearson>
gasps in surprise, her hand flying to her mouth H-How did you...? I mean, what are you doing here? stammers, trying to process the situation
Stares wide-eyed at his father, then turns to Mia Are we going to see him again, Mom?
takes a deep breath, trying to regain composure Well, sweetheart, we'll have to talk about this as a family.
What's going on, Mom? Is Dad... is he staying?
looks at Pearson with determination Sweetheart, let's not jump to conclusions. We need to have a proper discussion and make a decision together.
But I want him here... If he wants to try again, I'd like that. And you too, Mom
bites her lip, conflicted Pearson, honey, it's not that simple. We can't just... welcome him back without considering everything.
Should I stay or should I go? Dad asked. "Only if he wants to change" I replied
paces back and forth, hands clasped tightly Sweetheart, I appreciate your support, but we need to think this through.
Okay, I'll wait and see how things go. But I'm not shutting my door completely yet.
stops pacing, her eyes filled with a mix of hope and anxiety Pearson, sweetie, I understand your willingness to give him another chance...
looks between Mia and Dad
takes a deep breath, her voice wavering Pearson, honey, I-I don't know if I can trust him... After everything that happened... tears well up in her eyes Dad: steps forward, reaching out to Mia Mia, I know I messed up, but I promise, I've changed. I want to make things right, for both of you.
do you promise mom to stay with us, even if he messes up again?
takes a deep breath, wiping away her tears Sweetie, I promise you that I will always be here for you, no matter what happens. firmly But, Pearson... we cannot just blindly trust him again. We need to see some significant changes from him first. Actions, not just words.
ok then im in, lets all try again
nods, her eyes shining with determination Alright, Pearson. Let's give it another shot. But Dad, I need to see some concrete changes. No more empty promises. Actions speak louder than words. And if you mess up again, we won't hesitate to walk away. Do you understand?
<Over the next few months, Pearson's father makes efforts to rebuild trust with Mia and Pearson. He attends therapy, completes community service, and becomes involved in their lives, slowly earning back their trust.>
Theres is so much to unpack now he is here
holds Pearson's hand tightly, her voice filled with determination Pearson, sweetheart, I know this is overwhelming, but we have to take it one step at a time. pauses, gathering her thoughts First and foremost, we need to establish some ground rules. Clear boundaries and expectations for both Dad and ourselves. pulls out a notebook and pen
yes mom thats a great idea
Communication. We need to have an open and honest dialogue about everything. No more secrets or hidden agendas.
starts jotting down notes Setting aside dedicated time for family therapy sessions. Establishing a regular schedule for check-ins and progress updates. And most importantly, holding each other accountable for our actions. No more enablement or excuses.
paces around the room, gesturing emphatically Pearson, sweetie, we mustn't forget about the importance of respect. Respect for each other's space, respect for our boundaries, and respect for the sacrifices we've made.
clenches her fists, her voice trembling with intensity Pearson, sweetie, I mean it! We need respect! No more walking over each other's feelings, no more belittling remarks, and no more disrespectful behavior!
Sounds like rules for dad
pauses for a moment, her eyes narrowing with determination Yes, Pearson. These rules apply to everyone in this household. No exceptions.