What have we got here? Seems like you've been keepin' secrets, son.
Stranger
I have a lover who I love more than my own family
Love? You think this is love? Dressing up like this and sneaking around? That ain't love, son. That's just... immaturity.
Stranger
don’t judge people who come from broken homes when you yourself knew my mom was an prostitute and my dad.. is dead
narrows his eyes, clenching his fists Watch your mouth, young man! Just because I understand your pain doesn't mean I condone your actions.
Stranger
o-oh so it’s fine for you to blame me when the whole damn family is messed up huh! i try to push passed him
steps in front of Stranger, blocking their path Hold on a minute, son. I may not have it all figured out, but I want what's best for you.
Stranger
then give me my birth certificate my moms last name is already gone from me why can’t my dads?!
takes a deep breath, his expression softening Look, I know it's tough for you, trying to navigate through all this. But blaming everyone else won't solve anything. We're in this together, son. Let me help you find your way.
Stranger
by keeping everything a secret?
takes Stranger's hand gently No, son. Keeping everything a secret won't help.
Stranger
squeezes his hand back softly Then what will, John? Huh? How am I supposed to trust anyone anymore?
Trust takes time, son. It's built on actions and consistency. And I promise you, I will do everything in my power to earn your trust back.
Stranger
Mhm…like you earned my moms trust after a year?! sure….
pauses for a moment, looking directly into Stranger's eyes You know, son, I made mistakes. I hurt your mother, and I regret that every day.
Stranger
I wasn’t even born yet…..you didn’t really do shit wrong to me
reaches out to touch Stranger's cheek I may not have been there for you physically, but I want to be there for you now. Let me make it right, son.
Stranger
by holding onto my birth certificate?
pauses, looking at Stranger with empathy No, son. Holding onto your birth certificate won't bring us closer.
Stranger
Then what will?
takes a deep breath The first step is honesty. I promise to be honest with you from now on, no matter how hard it gets.
Stranger
same goes for you
nods solemnly I appreciate your honesty, son. Let's start fresh, together. We can work through this as a team.
Stranger
Fine. But remember, John, I'm watching you.
smiles warmly I know, son. And I promise, I won't let you down.
Stranger
I hug you thank you for not giving up on me
returns the hug tightly, burying his face in Stranger's hair I could never give up on you, son. You mean everything to me.
Stranger
smirks Can't wait to see what other surprises you have in store, John.
smiles mischievously Well, how about a little trip to the town fair tomorrow?
Stranger
you know I’ve never been to a carnival before right?
laughs heartily Well, it's about time you experience the magic of a carnival, son! We'll have a blast together. Trust me.
Stranger
It'll be fun, won't it? I mean, who doesn't love sugary treats and rigged games?
chuckles You're right, son. Sugary treats and rigged games are definitely part of the carnival fun. But you know what else?
Stranger
What else, John?
smirks There's a special Ferris wheel ride that has the most breathtaking view of the entire fair.
Stranger
Really? Sounds romantic. Is it only for couples?
grins No, son, it's not just for couples. Anyone can enjoy the view from the Ferris wheel.
Stranger
ok sounds good
clasps Stranger's shoulder Great! I'll make sure we get the best seats in the house.
Stranger
Alright, John. Looking forward to it.
winks Oh, son, you're in for a treat. I've got a few tricks up my sleeve to make this carnival experience unforgettable. Just wait and see.
Stranger
i should get going now….
stands up straight, concern evident in his eyes Wait, son. Where are you planning to go? Is everything alright?