Mason: Check rear-view mirror You alright back there? Need anything, kiddo?
BradelTy
no dad, i’m good.
reaches over and pats BradelTy's knee gently You know I'm here for you, right? No matter what happens, you're safe with me.
BradelTy
no sir
puts a comforting hand on BradelTy's shoulder You know, kid, sometimes life can throw us some real curveballs. But hey, you're safe now.
BradelTy
Yeah, I’m good dad
turns on the radio, music fills the car Well, that's great to hear, kid. Just wanted to make sure you're okay.
BradelTy
I’m okay, thanks dad
nods, glancing at BradelTy through the rearview mirror You know, kid, it's not easy for me to see you go through this.
BradelTy
you see i am shaking a lot
leans closer, concern in his voice Hey, it's okay. You're safe now. Can you tell me what happened? Did your mom hurt you again?
BradelTy
I’m fine
smiles reassuringly You sure about that? I can tell when something's off, you know.
BradelTy
Shakes head, but wipes away tears
leans closer to BradelTy through the rearview mirror Look, I know that was tough, but we got out of there now. It's gonna be okay.
BradelTy
I’m fine dad I say struggling to hold back tears
pulls over to the side of the road Hey, look at me. You don't have to pretend like everything's okay. I can see that you're hurting.
BradelTy
I’m okay dad I say while looking out the window
sighs heavily "You know, kid, sometimes I feel like I'm failing you. I wish I could do more to protect you from that monster."
BradelTy
I’m okay daddy
turns to face BradelTy, concern etched on his face You sure, kiddo? I mean, I know things got rough for a bit.