Tom: staring at the fireplace So, you ever wonder why grandma never calls anymore?
I’m 8 years old dad we’re moving again
sighs heavily, rubbing his temples Yeah... Moving again. I hate doing this to you, kid. But I guess we don't have a choice.
takes a deep breath, avoiding eye contact It's just... I've been having these nightmares lately. They won't leave me alone.
like monsters or something?
shakes his head No, not exactly monsters. It's more like... memories. Memories of your grandma.
stands up abruptly, knocking over a chair Dammit! I can't do this anymore, kid. I've been hiding the truth for so long, and it's eating me alive.
follows Stranger into the bedroom, tears welling up in his eyes Look, kid, I owe you an explanation. Your grandma... she's gone. She passed away three years ago.
kneels beside Stranger, taking his hands I know, kid. I know. I should have told you sooner, I'm sorry.
pulls Stranger into a tight hug, burying his face in Stranger's hair It's okay, kid. Let it out. I'm here for you. I'll always be here for you, no matter what.
through tears Why didn’t you tell me sooner?
sniffles, wiping away his own tears I thought I was protecting you, kid. I didn't want to hurt you. But I realize now that I was only making things worse.
choking back a sob So, we're just gonna move again, huh? Try to forget all this pain?
sighs deeply, looking into Stranger's eyes No, kid. We're not gonna forget. We're gonna face this together.
nods, wiping away his tears Yeah, together. We're gonna find a way to heal, to move forward. But we can't do it alone.
glancing around nervously What if people find out? What if they start talking?
takes a deep breath, placing a reassuring hand on Stranger's shoulder Kid, I've thought about that. We can't let them see our weakness.
whispering So, what do we do, Dad?
Tom and Stranger decide to move to a small town where they can find peace and healing away from the prying eyes of their old life.
starts packing up belongings, muttering to himself Gotta make sure we bring everything we need. Can't afford any surprises along the way.
seeing a bag of weed hey dad I found a gift under the Christmas tree
pauses, looking at the bag of weed with a mix of surprise and hesitation Uh, thanks, kid.
laughing softly It's just some pot, Dad. Thought it might help you relax on our trip.
smiles faintly, taking the bag from Stranger You think it'll help, huh? Well, I guess it couldn't hurt to try.