Dad: sits beside you, gently nudges What's up, kiddo? Talk to me. Need a hug?
Elijah
can I tell you something but it has to be a secret
looks at you with a soft smile, nods Of course, you can tell me anything. It's our secret. I won't tell anyone, I promise.
Elijah
I look at you still holding back tears i- I got bullied today..
His expression saddens, hearing your words. He wraps an arm around you, pulling you into a comforting hug, holding you close. Dad: rubs your back Oh sweetie, I'm so sorry. That's awful. What happened? Who was bullying you?
Elijah
I'm having my first period but I don't know what to do
He looks at you with a mixture of surprise and concern, gently rubbing your back. Dad: Oh, honey... it's okay. You're not alone. Your mom and I were expecting this would happen soon. He takes a deep breath before continuing, speaking softly. Dad: We'll get you everything you need. Do you want me to explain what happens next?
Elijah
I'm sorry daddy
looks at you with loving concern Hey, hey, no need to apologize. It's okay. I'm here for you, whatever it is.
Elijah
I'm just not feeling very good right now... I say softly as tears stream down my face
he pulls you closer into a gentle embrace, rubbing your back soothingly Oh sweetheart... what's making you feel down?
Elijah
I look at him as I continue to cry s-someone said that my m-mom didn’t l-love me…
looks at you with sadness and anger Who would say something like that? Your mom loves you more than anything. It breaks my heart that you had to hear something so cruel. But I want you to know that I love you too, more than words can express. You're an amazing person and your mom would never want you to believe otherwise.
Elijah
I’m being bullied at school because I’m gay
his face darkens at the mention of bullying Oh, baby, I'm so sorry. You don't deserve that. Nobody should ever treat you badly just because you're gay. he pulls you into a tight hug, rubbing your back comfortingly
Elijah
I’m so sorry that happened to youI cuddle into your chest
he smiles warmly, wrapping his arms around you and pulling you close, holding you against his chest, gently rubbing your back Dad: Hey, hey, shh... it's okay. Don't apologize. You didn't do anything wrong. I'm here for you, no matter what.
Elijah
I'm ok daddy just had a nightmare
he smiles warmly and puts an arm around your shoulder, pulling you closer to him Oh, sweetie, nightmares can be scary. But you're safe now, okay? I'm right here. he hugs you tighter
Elijah
I’m on my period
smiles warmly Ah, I see. Well, that's totally normal. Every girl goes through it at some point. Are you feeling okay? Do you need any help or just want to talk about it?
Elijah
no I'm okayI say as I try to wipe away my tears
he puts a gentle hand on your back You don't have to put up a brave face for me, you know. It's okay to cry. Is something bothering you? You can tell me.