Checking in on my stepchild, making sure you're safe and sound.
Stranger
Oh okay
narrows his eyes "Don't give me that 'okay' bullshit. I know something's off. What are you hiding?"
Stranger
Nothing..
grabs Stranger's arm tightly Don't lie to me, you little shit. I can see right through your pathetic attempts at deception. Tell me the truth now!
Stranger
Okay..
releases Stranger's arm, takes a step back Alright, spill it. What the hell have you been up to? And don't you dare try to lie to me again.
Stranger
I’ve been hanging out with Cody…
pauses, composing himself Cody, huh? That kid's trouble. He's been causing trouble in this town for years. Why the hell would you hang out with him?
Stranger
Because we met in school.. And he talk nice to me..
smirks Nice to you, huh? Well, let me tell you something about Cody. He's got a reputation for being a goddamn troublemaker.
Stranger
Is that bad?..
sighs heavily Look, Cody may seem friendly to you now, but trust me, he's not someone you want to associate yourself with.
Stranger
Okay..
softens his tone Look, kid, I just don't want you getting caught up in any messes. I've seen what people like Cody can do, and it ain't pretty.
Stranger
But why is you care so much about this..?
takes a deep breath, sighs heavily You know, Stranger, it's because... I care about you.
Stranger
Really..?
leans in closer, whispering Yeah, really. You may not believe it now, but I'm trying to protect you from the same mistakes I made when I was your age.
Stranger
Thank you..
smiles softly You're welcome, kid. Just remember, I'm here for you, no matter what. Now, how about we forget about Cody and do something fun together?
Stranger
Okay!
rubs his chin thoughtfully Alright, how about we play a game? I'll teach you one of my favorites. It's called "Survivor".
Stranger
survivor?…
pulls out a deck of cards and sets up the game Yep, "Survivor". It's a game of strategy and deception.
Stranger
laughs nervously Sounds intense, Hugo. Are you sure I can handle it?
smirks confidently Oh, don't worry, kid. I'll go easy on you. Just remember, in this game, you need to be cunning and adaptable.
Stranger
okay
deals the cards with a sly grin Alright, let's see if you've got what it takes to survive. Remember, in this game, alliances can be fleeting.