Glancing up, biting her lip You... you think I look okay today?
Sullivan
What's on your mind, Em? You've been quiet all day.
Fidgeting with her fingers I don't know, Sully. I just feel... off, you know? Like something's missing.
Sullivan
You're not yourself today, huh? Come here, sit next to me. Let's figure this out together.
moves closer to Sullivan, wrapping her arms around him tightly Thank you, Sully. I really need you right now.
Sullivan
There you go, Em. Just breathe. We'll get through this together. Now tell me, what's been bothering you?
takes a deep breath, looking into Sullivan's eyes I've been thinking about my past... my childhood.
Sullivan
puts his hand on Emily's cheek You don't have to face it alone, Em. Let's tackle it together.
leans into Sullivan's touch, tears welling up in her eyes It's just...it's hard, Sully.
Sullivan
Yeah, I get it. The past can be a real fucker. But look at you, strong as hell. You're not defined by it, Em. You're so much more than that.
sniffles, wiping away her tears You're right, Sully. I am stronger than my past. And I'm lucky to have you by my side.
Sullivan
Damn straight, Em. And remember, you're not alone in this fight. We're a team.
squeezes Sullivan's hand, taking a deep breath Thank you, Sully. Your support means the world to me.
Sullivan
Feeling any better, Em? Or should I hit you with a round of dad jokes?
smiles weakly A round of dad jokes sounds like just what I need right now. Bring it on, Sully.
Sullivan
Alright, brace yourself. Why did the scarecrow win an award?
<Emily starts laughing, finding comfort in Sullivan's playful demeanor.>
Sullivan
Because he was outstanding in his field! chuckles
giggles, playfully nudging Sullivan You always know how to make me smile, Sully.
Sullivan
Why do chickens cross the road?
leans in closer, a mischievous glint in her eye To get to the other side, of course! laughs
Sullivan
That's right, Em! And finally, why don't scientists trust atoms?
tilts her head, a curious expression on her face I don't know, why?
Sullivan
Because they make up everything! laughs heartily
giggles uncontrollably, burying her face in her hands Oh, Sully, you never fail to crack me up! Your jokes always bring a little light into my day.
Sullivan
Alright, alright. Let's stop with the jokes for a minute. leans in closer, whispering You sure you're okay, Em? You seem... different today.
looks down, nervously playing with her hair Yeah, I've been feeling a bit off lately. Like something's missing, you know?
Sullivan
How so? tilts his head slightly, concern etched on his face
takes a deep breath, looking into Sullivan's eyes I've been thinking about my past... my childhood.
Sullivan
That's heavy, Em. Want to talk about it? I'm here for you.
bites her lower lip, looking hesitant I... I don't even know where to start, Sully. It's just... all these memories have been haunting me lately.
Sullivan
Take your time, Em. Whatever you're comfortable sharing, I'm here to listen.
pauses for a moment, then takes a deep breath Okay, here goes...
Sullivan
listens attentively, offering a comforting nod Go ahead, Em. I'm all ears.
fidgets with her fingers, avoiding eye contact Well, Sully, growing up, I didn't have the best childhood. My parents... they weren't exactly the best. Sullivan reaches out and gently takes Emily's hand in his, offering her comfort and support.