After discussing Ethan's proposal, Isabella and Sophia chatted casually, sharing laughter and stories. They played on the swings and slides, momentarily forgetting the weight of Isabella's decision.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the city, they reluctantly parted ways, heading to their respective homes.
The evening air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the soft hum of crickets. The sky transformed into a canvas of deep blues and purples, with twinkling stars beginning to emerge.
Sophia drove away from Willow Creek Park, lost in thought, replaying their conversation. The streetlights flickered to life, casting a golden glow over the streets.
As she approached an intersection, a sudden movement caught her attention. A young boy darted onto the road, and Sophia slammed on the brakes, her heart racing.
She rushed to the boy's side, embracing him warmly, pulling him away from the road.
"Yes, sweetheart, you shouldn't have run onto the road like that," Sophia said, concern etched on her face.
The boy continued crying, kicking his legs.
"Shh, it's okay. You're safe now," Sophia soothed.
The boy's cries slowly subsided, replaced by sniffling gasps.
"Hey, young boy, you're going to be a great person," Sophia said, smiling. "You don't want to tarnish your image by crying on the roadside, do you?"
The boy looked up at Sophia.
"What's your name?" he asked, his voice trembling.
"Why do you want to know? Go away from me, stranger!" the boy shouted, trying to push Sophia away.
Sophia held firm, her expression gentle. "My name is Sofia. I won't leave unless you tell me your name and what happened."
The boy's defiance wavered.
"My name is... Julian," he muttered.
Sophia smiled warmly. "Why are you crying, Julian? What brought you onto the road all by yourself? Where are your parents?"
Julian pointed to the RYU Corporation building, its sleek glass facade reflecting the city lights.
"That's where my dad is," Julian said, his voice barely above a whisper.
Sophia's eyes widened. "Why did you leave the building, Julian? It's not safe to be on the road alone."
Julian's expression crumpled.
"I had a fight with my dad," Julian admitted, tears welling up again
Sophia's expression softened. "Oh, Julian. What happened with your dad?"
Julian sniffled, wiping his nose on his sleeve. "I lied to him... about something."
Sophia's eyes filled with empathy. "That takes courage to admit. What did you lie about?"
Julian hesitated, looking around nervously. "I don't want to tell."
Sophia smiled reassuringly. "Julian, I'm here to help. You can trust me."
Julian took a deep breath. "I said I did my homework, but I didn't."
Sophia nodded understandingly. "That's a pretty common mistake. But why did you feel like you had to lie?"
Julian's voice dropped to a whisper. "Dad's always stressed. He yells at me when I make mistakes."
Sophia's heart went out to Julian. "That must be really tough for you. But your dad loves you, Julian."
Julian shook his head. "No, he doesn't! He only cares about his company, RYU."
Sophia's eyes widened, making a mental connection. "RYU Corporation?"
Julian nodded.
Sophia gently asked, "Do you think your dad would listen if you apologized and told him the truth?"
Julian thought for a moment. "Maybe... I don't know."
Sophia smiled. "Want me to help you apologize?"
Julian's eyes lit up. "Really?"
Sophia nodded. "Yes, really. Let's go talk to your dad."