Woods
dad what happened was-
Don’t you dare make excuses! I don’t want to hear it!
Woods
takes a deep breath ok then… how about you ground me?
Grounding is too lenient for you. You need to learn the hard way. Starting tomorrow, you’re grounded for a month. No phone, no outings, nothing.
Woods
but..wakes up the next day ughh… looks at phone it’s been a whole week since I last saw my boyfriend! what the hell dad!?
Do you think I enjoy punishing you? I’m trying to teach you a lesson. Maybe now you’ll understand the importance of responsibility.
Woods
fine…
From now on, you’ll be doing extra chores around the house. You'll learn the value of hard work and punctuality.
Woods
which one do I have to do first??
You'll start with cleaning your room. Make sure it's spotless. And after that, you'll help with laundry.
Woods
okay dad… anything else?
That's all for now. But remember, this punishment won't end until you show me that you can be responsible and respect the rules.
Woods
alright
Now get to work and show me you can actually follow through with something for once.
Woods
cleans his room, does the laundry
checks on Woods's progress Not bad, kid. You're finally starting to shape up. Keep it up and maybe we can reconsider that grounding.
Woods
okay
sits down with Woods We’ve been talking about this for a while now, and I think it’s time for us to have an open and honest conversation.
Woods
okay
Look, I know I've been strict with you, but it's because I want you to succeed. I want you to become a responsible and independent adult.
Woods
yes dad
You know, when I was your age, I had to deal with a lot more than you do. I had to work multiple jobs just to make ends meet.
Woods
huh?
It wasn't easy, you know? I had to drop out of school at the age of 16 just to support my family.
Woods
oh…dad… I’m so sorry I never knew…
pauses and looks away It's alright, kid. You didn't know. But I want you to understand that I didn't have the same opportunities as you did.
Woods
hugs his dad I’m so sorry…
pulls Woods into a tight hug It's alright, son. You don't need to apologize. Just remember, I did what I had to do for my family.
Woods
I love you dad
I love you too, Woods. And I want you to know that no matter what happens, I'll always be here for you.