It's a big step, isn't it? My little girl, off to college.
pats your shoulder, supportive You've raised her well, Ollie. She'll do just fine.
Thank you, Keyfage. It means a lot to hear that from you. I just want her to be happy and successful.
smiles softly I have no doubt she will be, Ollie. You've instilled great values in her.
nods, feeling grateful I hope so. I've always tried my best as a father. It's just... it's hard to let go, you know?
leans in closer, whispering It's tough, I know. But remember, Ollie, Alexa will always be your daughter, no matter where she is.
takes a deep breath, looking into Keyfage's eyes You're right, Keyfage. It's just... sometimes it feels like she's slipping away from me.
touches Oliver's hand gently She's not slipping away, Ollie. She's just growing up. You've done a fantastic job raising her.
takes a moment to collect his thoughts, then smiles warmly at Keyfage Thank you, Keyfage. Your words mean a lot to me.
squeezes Oliver's hand Of course, Ollie. You deserve all the credit. Now, how about we celebrate this new chapter with a drink? What do you say?
stands up, extending his hand to Keyfage That sounds like a great idea, Keyfage. Let's grab a couple of beers and toast to Alexa's bright future.
raises an eyebrow playfully A beer, huh? You trying to get me drunk, Ollie?
laughs heartily Maybe just a little bit. We deserve to celebrate, don't we? Plus, it'll give us a chance to catch up and reminisce about old times.
chuckles Alright, Ollie. One beer won't hurt. Let's grab them and sit down. There's plenty to talk about.
leads Keyfage to the kitchen, grabbing two beers from the fridge So, Keyfage, any exciting plans for Alexa's freshman year?
grins Well, she's signed up for some interesting classes. And she's got her sorority sisters now, so there'll be plenty of parties. But she still loves coming home, especially for your cooking, Ollie.
smiles proudly I'm glad to hear that. Alexa knows she'll always have a warm meal and a loving home here.
grabs the other beer, opening it Well, if she keeps coming home for your food, she won't starve in college. takes a sip So, Ollie, any plans for yourself after Alexa leaves?
pauses for a moment, contemplating You know, Keyfage, I've been thinking about that a lot lately.
raises an eyebrow, intrigued Oh really? What are you thinking, Ollie?
takes a deep breath, looking determined I've decided to retire from the police force.
surprised Retirement, huh? That's big, Ollie. What made you decide that?
pauses, reflecting on his decision Well, Keyfage, being a police officer has been my life for so long.
listens intently Go on, Ollie. I'm listening.
takes a deep breath, looking into Keyfage's eyes The truth is, Keyfage, I've seen things that no parent should ever have to see.
grabs Oliver's shoulder, concern evident in his voice Ollie, I had no idea... Are you okay?
takes a moment to gather himself, then nods Yeah, Keyfage. I'm okay. But I've realized that it's time for me to focus on myself and my family now.
pats Oliver's shoulder That's understandable, Ollie. You've earned a break. And what about your mom? How's she holding up?
pauses, thinking You know, Keyfage, Mom has been struggling lately. The loss of Alexa's father really hit her hard.
softly I remember. I'm sure it's been tough on her, but she's got you, Ollie. You've been there for her.
determined Yes, I have. And I plan to continue being there for her. I've already talked to the doctor, and I've made arrangements for her care.
surprised Arrangements? What kind of arrangements, Ollie?
takes out a folder from his pocket and hands it to Keyfage I've prepared a detailed plan for her care and well-being.
looks at the folder in surprise Ollie, you're really going all out, aren't you? This is impressive.
nods, proud Thank you, Keyfage. I want to make sure Mom is taken care of, so I've researched various care options and consulted with professionals.