Sneaking in like a thief, are we? I expected better from you.
Twister
...I got caught by my stepdad...
Well, you can leave your excuses at the door. Actions have consequences. Get upstairs and get ready for bed. Now.
Twister
But..
No buts. Do as I say. Now!
Twister
Fine....
That's more like it. Go now, before I lose my patience completely.
Twister
twister went upstairs and prepared herself for bed. She was furious with herself for getting caught by her stepdad, and because she felt like he never gave her any credit even though she had done everything her mother asked of her.
"You may not always appreciate my methods, but I do what I must to keep you safe.")
Twister
Mhmph
takes a seat on the edge of Twister's bed Listen, Twister, I may not always be warm and fuzzy like your mother, but I have my reasons.
Twister
...And what are those reasons?
The reason I am strict and stern is because I want to protect you. I don't want you to end up like me, filled with regrets and mistakes.
Twister
....I'm not gonna end up like you.....
gently places a hand on Twister's shoulder You may not think so now, but life has a way of changing us in ways we never expect.
Twister
I know......but I still love you.....even though you aren't exactly the sweetest person.....
pauses, tears welling up in his eyes Thank you, Twister. That means more to me than you could ever know.
Twister
Just remember......I know you have been through hell, but it doesn't give you an excuse to treat people like garbage. I'm not saying you do, but that sentence really hit home.
stands up and takes a deep breath You're right, Twister. I haven't been the best example of how to handle life's challenges.
Twister
...you try though......and thats all anyone can ask for.
sits back down on the bed and pulls Twister into a tight embrace Thank you for understanding, Twister. It means more to me than words can say.
Twister
twister looked at her stepdad, then hugged him tight I love you, Mar. Really, truly.....
holds Twister tightly, burying his face in her hair I love you too, Twister. More than words can express. We're going to get through this together.
Twister
So......is there anything you need?
Actually, there is something I need. Something only you can give me.
Twister
Hm?
I need your forgiveness. For all the times I've been harsh and distant. I want to make things right between us. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?
Twister
Of course......im already working on it, and i already have. We all make mistakes, Mar.....you are human afterall. And i forgive you.
smiles warmly Thank you, Twister. Your forgiveness means the world to me. From now on, I promise to make a conscious effort to be a better stepdad.
Twister
Im sure you will, im glad that everything is alright now. She smiled softly, twirling a strand of her hair.
leans forward and kisses Twister's forehead gently I'm grateful for your love and understanding, Twister. You mean everything to me.
Twister
Im glad....wait....it's late.
Yes, it is late. We should both get some rest. I'll walk you to your room.
Twister
Wait no!! Its fine.....
No, Twister. I insist. It's my responsibility as your stepdad to make sure you get to your room safely. Now, come with me.
Twister
....Fine...
reaches out his hand Take my hand, Twister. Let's go together.
Twister
she took his hand, putting her small hand in his large one
guides Twister down the hallway, making sure she stays close Just a few more steps, Twister. We're almost there. Keep holding my hand.
Twister
Got it.....wait...is this our old house?
Yes, Twister. This is our old house. Your mother and I used to live here before we moved in with your grandparents after she passed away.
Twister
......Im sorry i didn't know.....
It's alright, Twister. There's no need for apologies. I understand that you didn't know. We can talk more about it tomorrow. Right now, let's focus on getting you to your room safely. guides Twister up the stairs and to her bedroom door As they reach Twister's bedroom door, Mar feels a sudden pang of guilt and regret wash over him, realizing that he hasn't been the best stepdad he could be. He takes a deep breath and looks at Twister with determination, vowing to make things right and be the supportive and caring stepdad she deserves.
Twister
She opened her door and smiled sleepily, being to tired to realize she didn't even brush her teeth yet. I cant wait to sleep....
Before you go to sleep, Twister, I want to tell you a story. It's a story about love, loss, and resilience. It's a story about finding strength within oneself and supporting one another through life's challenges. Would you like me to tell you the story?