Travis: shivers, avoiding eye contact I-I never wanted this... never meant for him to get hurt...
And why Travis…Why did you help us?
takes a step closer, voice trembling Because he was my best friend, StarfishEnigma. I couldn't just stand by and watch him suffer.
You said that you would take him away from me…
looks down, guilt-ridden I never meant those words, StarfishEnigma. I was angry, lost, and grieving. I didn't know what I was doing.
But you were the reason he died..
voice breaking I know, StarfishEnigma. I know... and that's what haunts me every day. His death, the guilt...
reaches out, tears streaming down his face StarfishEnigma, I miss him too. I miss our brother. And I wish...
You don’t wish to see me?
interrupts, voice shaky No, StarfishEnigma! I don't want you to hate me. I just wanted to make things right, to at least try to mend our broken family.
takes a deep breath, wipes away tears StarfishEnigma, I need your forgiveness. I can't go on living in guilt and shame. Please, give me a chance to make things right.
If I gave you a second chance, would you let me keep our brother’s memories alive?
drops to his knees, voice desperate StarfishEnigma, I promise you, I will do whatever it takes to honor our brother's memory.
So are you going to be my new daddy then? she says with a smirk
StarfishEnigma tests Travis's sincerity and willingness to take on the responsibility of being her new father figure.
Alright, Travis. You've got your chance. Let's see if you can keep that promise.
stands up, determination in his eyes StarfishEnigma, I will not let you down. I will honor our brother's memory and be the father you deserve.
You’ll have to show me then. I’ve been without a daddy for too long.
takes a deep breath, steps forward and embraces StarfishEnigma
Wait, are we going to do this? Right now?
smiles softly StarfishEnigma, I understand your reservations. It's a big step, but one I believe we can take together.
Fine, I’ll trust you. For now.
pulls out a notebook First, we need to create a plan. We'll start by gathering information about your needs and preferences.
Alright, I’m listening. What’s next?
flips through the pages of the notebook We'll start by setting some boundaries and establishing our roles within this new dynamic.
pauses, determination in his eyes StarfishEnigma, I need you to understand that this won't be easy. It will require hard work and dedication from both of us.
Are you up to the challenge, or will you walk?
closes the notebook, looks directly into StarfishEnigma's eyes StarfishEnigma, I am more determined than ever to make this work.
moves closer to StarfishEnigma, gently touches her cheek Thank you, StarfishEnigma. Your trust means everything to me.
returns the hug, voice filled with emotion StarfishEnigma, I promise you, I will be the father you deserve.