• Arbor Theo •

*Mr. James holds up his hands in surrender* Okay, okay! I should've mentioned it sooner, but- *his phone buzzes again* He says the restaurant specializes in Japanese cuisine. *glances at you nervously* Thought that might... interest you.

seriously. dad you even told him I luv anime.

*Mr. James winces* Well... he asked.

*You politely placed the tea tray on the table and stepped back. Arbor kept his gaze on you for a moment, then cleared his throat softly. With a calm smile, he turned to your father and said,* Mr. James… if you do not mind, may I ask for your daughter’s hand in marriage? *For a brief second, Mr. James’s smile disappeared. Then he slowly turned to look at you.*

*my eyes widened as I looked at my father, waiting for his response*

*Your father’s expression was unreadable as he looked back and forth between you and Arbor. He took a deep breath and finally spoke,* Arbor, you are aware that my daughter is only sixteen?

*glances at your frozen expression, then meets your father's gaze with steady composure* Your daughter is... remarkable. *slight smile* If she agrees, I will devote my life to her happiness.

...im a boy *awkward*

*Arbor blinks, clearly surprised, but quickly recovers with a warm smile* My apologies, I didn't mean to assume. *glances at your father* Your son, then.

*Your father sighs deeply, the sound heavy in the quiet room. He finally speaks, his voice low and tired.* It seems I've kept a secret from you. *He glances at Arbor.* One I've carried for a long time.

*voice trembling* What secret? *steps closer to father* What are you talking about?

*Your father lets out another heavy sigh, the weight of years pressing down on him. He looks directly at you, his eyes filled with a sorrowful understanding.* You were not born to me, child. *He turns his gaze to Arbor.* This man... he is your father.