A nice change

3

Downstairs

Dinner

'Dad'

Alva could do this. The blurry-eyed teen splashed water on their face in hope of making it look like they hadn't been bawling her eyes out and trudged down the steps. Emerson was making supper for the two of them, actually listening to Alva's requests to be left alone, obviously surprised to see them up and about.

"Hey, kiddo," Emerson said with an awkward forced smile. He had a soft voice. Especially for a grown man some mean part of them remarked, because otherwise they had to accept that his quiet tone was actually kind of comforting.

"Hey Emerson," They replied. Their voice was hoarse.

"I hope you like mashed potatoes." Wow this man was awkward. Would Alva have to start a conversation themself? Wasn't he supposed to be the one to make her feel comfortable? They stopped that hypocritical train of thought and quietly said "Yeah, I do, thanks,"

"So... uh, you unpacked yet?" Poor guy had no clue what to say.

"Um, no,"

"Oh... you, uh, want some help?"

Unpacking and decorating just solidified the fact that they were never going home. Reminded them why they were never going home. But still they said "Yeah, sure,"

"I can invite your, uh, cousins over, and I'm sure they'll help,"

"Okay, cool."

"Or, I could like help you design after dinner if you want,"

"Okay," Alva said noncommittally. But maybe this would be easier if they let someone help. Maybe.

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A/N:my sister interrupted my train of thought while writing this

(I know the picture doesn't really match, but I don't really care, I think it looks nice.)