Claudia: sniffling, holding baby close So, what'll it be? You gonna forgive me or keep being a stubborn ass?!
No excuses? That's rich coming from you!
takes a step closer to Shiailini, voice trembling I know I don't deserve your forgiveness, but I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make it right.
Do whatever it takes to make it right? What the fuck does that even mean?
takes a deep breath, looking directly into Shiailini's eyes It means that I'll be there for you, no matter what.
I start to laugh and shake my head There for me? Claudia, I don't need you anymore. Do you understand that? You're just extra baggage that I don't need in my life anymore!
clenches her fists, voice filled with determination Baggage? You think I'm just some extra weight dragging you down?
Well isn't that the truth? You left me without any explanation! Then, you come back with our kid and expect everything to magically be okay again!
voice filled with rage Left you without an explanation? You think it was easy for me?
Easy for you? Are you fucking kidding me, Claudia? You disappeared without a trace! How is that not easy for you?!
As tensions rise, Holland receives a call informing them of a family emergency, forcing them to confront their unresolved issues head-on.
I sigh, holding the phone to my ear I'm sorry, I have to go...There's been a death in my family.
stands in silence, her anger replaced by concern I see...I'm sorry to hear that, Shiailini. If you need anything, please let me know.
Thanks, Claudia...but I'm good. I start to walk away
quickly catches up to Shiailini, gently touching their arm No, Shiailini. This doesn't have to be the end. I can come with you, be there for you...
Come with me? To my family's funeral? Are you out of your goddamn mind?!
pauses, looking conflicted Look, I know it's a lot to ask, but... I want to be there for you, Shiailini.
Be there for me?! How? You disappeared once before when things were calm! How do I know you won't disappear again?!
sighs deeply, her voice filled with sincerity I can't promise that I won't disappear again, Shiailini. But I can promise that I'll try my hardest to stay by your side.
Try your hardest? That's not good enough!
takes a step closer to Shiailini, eyes filled with determination I understand that you have doubts, Shiailini.
Damn right you do! I glare at you But it's not enough to trust you again!
takes a deep breath, hands clasped together Fine, I understand that trust needs to be earned. So, let me prove it to you, Shiailini. Let me show you that I'm not going anywhere this time.
Prove it to me? Fine. You want to be there for me? Show me that's true. Take care of our baby while I deal with my family.
nods, a small smile forming on her lips Alright, Shiailini. I'll take care of our baby. You focus on your family.
I nod and hand the baby to you Thanks, Claudia... I walk out the door
softly, holding the baby close Of course, Shiailini. We'll get through this together. I promise.