In the dining area below, Olivia's eyes brimmed with understanding as she cast James a sympathetic gaze. "Don't worry, James," she offered in a soft tone. "Though I'm grappling with doubts about Abby myself, my love for her remains steadfast. Likewise, deep within Katie's heart, the love for you still lingers, even amidst her current state of frustration and bewilderment. As a young girl venturing into the tumultuous realm of puberty, she finds herself surrounded by a sea of adolescents, with only a handful of friends her age. Given this, she fears forfeiting the companionship she shares with Jesse and Tyler. You have placed your unwavering faith in Tyler since your arrival in California; now, it's time to cultivate the same bond with Jesse. Unveil the kind and compassionate soul that resides within you, disproving the monstrous perception that haunts his thoughts. Your heart, immense and magnanimous, rivals the grandeur of this entire hotel. It is vital to let empathy trump your pride. I implore you, please, just give it a try." Her words hung in the air, heavy with emotion.
"Thank you for the advice, but I'm facing a small dilemma here. I must admit, I feel ill-equipped to take on the role of a big brother. Kendall, Logan, and Carlos seem to have what it takes, but I'm not so sure about myself," James expresses, his gaze filled with sadness.
"Here's an idea, James. If you give it your absolute best to rectify your mistake, I promise to put effort into improving my relationship with Abby. There was a time when she showed me kindness, and I truly miss that," Olivia suggests, offering her support.
"When was she ever nice to you?" James inquires.
"Well, let me tell you, James. Back in the day, when I was just a little baby, she was all about that baby doll phase. I mean, she treated me like a real-life baby doll, you know? She'd help me pick out my clothes, my bottles, and even feed me that mushy baby food. But let me tell you, buddy, all that sweetness came to a screeching halt when I turned one. It's like something inside her just snapped, you know? Suddenly, she realized she couldn't control me anymore because I was learning to talk and walk. And boy, did she get jealous of all the attention and presents I'd get. If I got a shiny new toy, she wanted one that was even shinier. If I got some snazzy new clothes, she wanted the entire store of her favorite designers. And whenever she got in trouble, guess who she took it out on? Yep, you guessed it, yours truly. She knew it was wrong, James. Deep down, she knew exactly what she was doing. But I think she just couldn't handle her own insecurities, you know? It was all so confusing and downright exhausting. But hey, I still believe there's a nicer side to her somewhere deep down. She just decided to lock it away, I guess." Olivia explains, with a hint of frustration in her voice.
"I believe she is incapable of change." Just my honest opinion." According to James.
"I'm not offended I understand." Olivia states.
"From the moment Katie entered this world, I've had the privilege of watching her grow. I was there at the very beginning, cradling her in my arms, and oh, what a sight she was! With those innocent, angelic eyes, she gazed at me, capturing my heart in an instant. Nestled in my embrace, she remained tranquil as I gently swayed her to and fro. Not a single tear, scream, or flinch escaped her tiny frame; she simply sucked on her pacifier, content in her own little world. And in that tender moment, I vowed to shield her from the cruelties of this world, defending her against any jerks or bullies that dare cross her path. I never imagined that the one person I needed to protect her from would be none other than myself. With a heavy heart, I lament this realization. When Katie's innocent form collided with Jesse's presence, I suddenly lost sight of the young girl she had become. All I could see was the sweet, vulnerable baby I held in that hospital room. It escaped me that she was growing up, blossoming into a poised and wise beyond her years individual. Perhaps she had to be, to navigate a world dominated by boys." James explains.
"You sound like a caring father." Olivia says.
"I do? Is it a mistake?" James states.
"No, that is not an error. You're expressing your emotions rather than hiding them. That's what a true man does. I know it's challenging for boys to do because it's too "girly," but revealing how vulnerable and sensitive you are makes you just as strong. Being strong does not always imply how much weight you can lift in the gym. Being also implies that you can freely express your emotions." Olivia says.
"You truly are a poet." Everything you've said to me has been quite comforting. "Thank you, Olivia." James explains.
"Aw you're welcome." Olivia explains.
"All I want is to keep her. I felt like I had, and I desperately wanted her back in my life, but He sighs. "too late." James explains.
"I may not have known her as long as you, but I can see the depth of her love for you. The way you both are together is simply awe-inspiring - the amount of care you exhibit towards her is undeniable," Olivia remarked thoughtfully.
"But it wasn't always this way. When she was just 5 years old, she went through a phase where she wouldn't listen to anyone. Her behavior was difficult to tolerate, which caused Kendall to raise their voice in frustration. It was a real struggle," James recalled, shaking his head.
Olivia couldn't help but laugh. "Was she really that terrible?" she asked.
"Oh, she was like a wild animal. I remember when she bit my hand when she was just a little one," James confessed, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
"But she was just a baby, James," Olivia replied, her amusement evident.
"That may be true, but let me tell you, her teeth were like those of a shark. It definitely hurt," James replied, rubbing his hand for dramatic effect.
Emma chimed in, curious. "Did she break your skin?"
James shrugged, sheepishly admitting, "Thankfully, there was barely a bite mark. I got lucky."
"Why are you still upset about it years later?" Olivia exclaims, giggling.
"I'm not bothered by it. I just didn't anticipate it to hurt so much. She was also stubborn and would not let go." According to James.
Olivia can only laugh.
After breakfast, everyone boards the bus, which is once again trapped in slow, congested traffic.
"Logan," Carlos begins, his voice tinged with impatience.
"I apologize, Carlos, but I must confess that I am unaware of the answer," Logan responds, his intuition picking up on Carlos' frustration.
"But I-" Carlos attempts to interject.
"Regrettably, Carlos, I remain clueless," Logan states.
"Would you kindly-" Carlos persists.
"Please, Carlos, occupy yourself with an enjoyable activity," Logan suggests.
"How did you discern my unspoken thoughts?" Carlos inquires.
"Having spent a considerable amount of time in your company, I have become adept at anticipating your words and actions. I am well aware that being trapped in traffic is far from enjoyable and can be quite tedious. However, it is essential to acknowledge that we are powerless in this situation. Our only recourse is to patiently await its resolution," Logan explains.
"Your astuteness never ceases to amaze me, Logie," Carlos admires.