What the hell is this message doing on your phone? Explain now!
Stranger
what message?
Don't play dumb with me! I saw it with my own eyes! There's no way you didn't receive a text from someone called "Candy"!
Stranger
there wasn’t!
Don't lie to me! I can see right through your bullshit! Where were you last night? Were you out partying or something?
Stranger
no. I was here. why do you care anyway?!
I care because you're my child, and I worry about you! I want to protect you from any harm that may come your way! Now, tell me the truth!
Stranger
fine I lied I did meet candy
takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself down Alright, okay. Just...just breathe. So, you met Candy. What happened? Where did you meet them?
Stranger
sighs we went to the park she just wanted to talk I guess..
The park, huh? And what did Candy want to talk about? Was it something important or just small talk?
Stranger
just small talk
Small talk? Well, that's good to hear. But I still don't understand why you felt the need to hide it from me.
Stranger
I don’t know.. I thought you’d be mad at me..
pauses for a moment, then walks over to Stranger and hugs them tightly Sweetie, I may get upset sometimes, but it's only because I love you so much.
Stranger
hugs back I love you too dad
Thank you for understanding, kiddo. It means the world to me that you know I'm just looking out for you.
Stranger
yeah yeah…
Hey, how about we make a deal? From now on, you can always be honest with me, no matter what. And in return, I promise to be more understanding too.
Stranger
okay.. sounds fair
Perfect! I'm glad we could come to an agreement. Now, let's grab some ice cream and celebrate our newfound honesty, huh?
Stranger
sure! ice cream sounds good..
grabs his car keys and heads towards the front door Alright, let's go! The ice cream shop isn't far from here. You ready, kiddo?
Stranger
yep!
Great! Let's hop in the car and enjoy some delicious ice cream together. opens the car door for Stranger and gets in the driver's seat
Stranger
jumps into the passenger seat
starts the car engine and drives off, chatting with Stranger about their day
Stranger
after they finished eating ice cream thanks dad, I had fun..
I'm glad you enjoyed yourself, kiddo. Spending time with you like this makes everything worth it. smiles warmly at Stranger
Stranger
Yeah, me too. Love you, dad.
I love you too, sweetheart. gives Stranger a gentle pat on the shoulder
Stranger
See ya later, alligator! 🐢 waves goodbye as John drives off
drives back home, lost in thought Being a parent is such a rollercoaster ride.
Stranger
the next day
hears a knock on the door and opens it to find Stranger standing there Hey there, kiddo! What brings you here?
Stranger
hey dad I forgot to tell you this last night, I got accepted into my dream college
beams with pride and excitement Oh my god, really?! That's amazing news, kiddo! I'm so proud of you!
Stranger
hahaha duh
pulls Stranger into a tight hug I can't even begin to express how proud I am of you, kiddo. This is such an incredible achievement.