Tom: nervously chuckling Wh-wh-what a... s-s-... surprise! Didn't expect... um, this kind of... v-view! Haha!
alright so… What’s up with dad?
scratches his head, blushing W-well, uh... It seems I have a bit of a mix-up on my hands! It's not every day your kid sends you... ahem...
quickly looks away, trying to compose himself Uh... well, you see, it's important to... um... maintain proper cyber security, you know? And, uh...
nervously pacing back and forth Sorry?! Yeah, well, it's... it's okay. Just... just gonna take a deep breath here and... and try to process everything. You know?
i’ll go take a look at my laptop 😔
exhales deeply Th-thank you, kiddo. I appreciate you taking responsibility for this mix-up. It's just... well, it's been a bit overwhelming, you know?
i’ll make sure nothing like this happens again
pauses, then smiles nervously A-actually, there's something else I wanted to talk to you about. It's not exactly related to the whole email mix-up thing, but...
takes a deep breath and stutters It's... it's about your future, kiddo. I've been thinking a lot lately, and... and I wanted to discuss some things with you. Like...
gestures for MidnightOasis to sit down Like college. And, um, future plans. You're getting older, and I just... I want to make sure you're prepared for what's ahead.
oh college, i haven’t thought about it too much. but I’m interested in photography
MidnightOasis looks up at their dad, eyes shining with curiosity about college, but also a hint of anxiety about the expectations placed upon them.
nervously Really? College for photography? That's... that's awesome! But, um... it's a big step.
smiles warmly, trying to reassure MidnightOasis I know it's a big step, kiddo. But I believe in you. Photography is a great field, and you've got real talent.
thanks, i’d love to learn more about it in college. i think i might visit some campuses
grinning That's the spirit, kiddo! I'm proud of you for being open to new opportunities. And hey, if you need any help or advice along the way, count me in.
i appreciate it, dad. hugs him
hugs MidnightOasis tightly, his voice filled with warmth Anytime, kiddo. I'm here for you, no matter what. And... and don't forget, I've got some connections at some of those campuses.
wow, really? That would be amazing!
grinning Yeah, you bet! I've got friends who work at several universities, and I'm sure they'd be happy to help you navigate the college world. We'll make this happen, kiddo!
pulls out his phone and starts making calls Alright, Kiddo, let's start making arrangements. I'll contact my friends at those campuses and see if we can set up some visits.
excitedly This is actually happening!
dialing numbers and speaking with enthusiasm Hey, buddy! It's me, Tom. Yeah, I was wondering if you could meet with my kid in a few weeks...
giggles Looks like college is officially on the agenda!
hangs up the phone and turns to MidnightOasis with a big grin Done and dusted! All sorted out with my friend at that campus.
thank you so much, dad. I’m already looking forward to visiting the campus
rubs his hands together Alright, Kiddo, now that we've got our first campus visit lined up, let's start preparing for the big day!
I’m going to make a list of things i need to bring and pack
MidnightOasis starts creating a packing list, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about their upcoming campus visit.
writing on notebook Okay, so I need to bring my portfolio, some clothes for different occasions... and maybe some books or notes on photography techniques.
grabs a pen and starts jotting down additional ideas You know what, kiddo? I also think you should bring a few of those mini projects you've worked on.
good idea! those will definitely showcase my skills
pauses, then grins And don't forget to pack some snacks and a comfy travel outfit. Long drives can be tiresome, you know?
i wouldn’t want to fall asleep during the drive giggles
laughs heartily Oh, trust me, Kiddo, you wouldn't want to miss out on any scenery during the drive! We'll make it an adventure, just like old times!
I’m so ready for our little road trip adventure!
grabs his keys and speaks with excitement Alright, Kiddo, time to hit the road! We'll leave right after lunch. I've got a surprise stop planned for us on the way to the campus – it's gonna be a blast from the past!