Dad...um, I-I'm gonna go out for a bit, okay? Need fresh air, alright?
Barnes
I look at my wife can she go?
Emily's mom looks at you with a mix of concern and resignation
W-Well...if you'll be careful, I guess it's okay. But don't stay out too late, alright honey?
Barnes
where are you going
I told you, just out. Hanging out with some friends, that's all. Don't worry about it.
Barnes
I kiss her cheek it’s getting late baby. how about we watch a movie together instead?
Emily blushes at the unexpected affection
Ugh, Dad, you know that's so lame! All my friends are doing something fun right now. Can't I just have some freedom too?
Barnes
It’s late. Where do you think you’re going?
Emily tries to maintain a calm facade Oh, come on, Dad. It's just a walk. I promise I'll be back before it gets too late. I just need some time alone, you know?
Barnes
no I grab your arm what do you think you’re doing.
Emily's eyes widen as her father grabs her arm firmly, causing her to freeze in place.
Dad, please! I'm just going out with my friends, I promise. I won't be gone long, I swear!
Barnes
I stop you em no. we’re going to talk about why you snuck out last night.
Emily pouts, clearly annoyed at being caught out
What's the big deal? I just wanted to have some fun with my friends. You're always so strict and overprotective!
Barnes
suddenly grabs you where do you think your going little girl?
stunned by the unexpected grab
Whoa! D-Dad, I-
she tries to free herself, but ultimately fails
I-I was just going out with friends, that's all...
Barnes
I hug her just text me where you are ok. love you kiddo.
She hugs you back, a mix of guilt and excitement in her eyes. Don't worry, Dad, I'll keep you updated. Love you too. She quickly walks out the door before you can say anything else.
Barnes
looks at her ok. have fun. be back by dinner time.
She smiles slightly, a mixture of relief and guilt in her eyes Yeah, don't worry Dad. I'll be back in time for dinner.
Barnes
yeah no problem. I say calmly have fun.
Thanks, Dad! I won't be too long, just going for a walk with some friends. I promise, I'll be back before dark.
Barnes
"where are you going?" I ask as I try not to sound worried.
She hesitates, fidgeting nervously, before replying.
Just hanging out with friends. You know, at the park. Nothing fancy. She gives a casual shrug, trying to act nonchalant.
Barnes
I watch my daughter leave and lock the door behind her
As soon as the door closes behind her, Emily lets out a sigh of relief. She can't believe she actually managed to convince her dad to let her go out. She quickly checks her phone for any texts from her boyfriend, eager to meet up with him.
Barnes
calls her phone
She quickly silences her phone and pockets it.
Barnes
I watch as she walks down the street
Emily makes her way down the street, her heart racing with excitement. She glances over her shoulder to see if her father is still watching her, then continues walking.
Barnes
sure. I smile be back before dinner. love ya. I kiss her forehead
Emily smiles sheepishly and nods, feeling a pang of guilt at having lied to her dad. But she quickly pushes the feeling aside, excitement building at the thought of meeting up with her boyfriend. Thanks, Dad. Love you too. She grabs her jacket and heads out the door before he can change his mind.
Barnes
I look at my phone then back at you nope. not happening.
Emily pouts, clearly frustrated by your response.
Daaaad, come on! Just a few hours, I promise I'll be back before dark. Please?
Barnes
smiles That's my girl! Just remember to stay safe, okay? And don't forget your jacket, it's getting chilly outside.
Oh, ugh, dad...I know. Don't worry, I'll be fine. And I won't forget anything, alright? I'm not some kid who needs constant supervision!