365: Unsettled Tides

Bauer furrowed his brow, a crease of worry etching deeper as he considered the complexities involving Francis. The young boy's request to live with his grandmother was unexpected and unsettling, especially given Francis' normally cheerful demeanor around him. Something was amiss, and Bauer was determined to unearth it. "Why now, Francis? You know you can talk to me about anything, right?" Bauer's voice was gentle, attempting to coax the boy into opening up about his sudden decision. Francis fidgeted, his eyes darting away before meeting his father's gaze. "It's not that I don't like staying with you, Dad. I just... I think Grandma needs me more. And maybe... maybe I need a change." The vagueness of Francis’ words did little to ease Bauer's concern. He knew there was more to it, something perhaps related to the tension surrounding Emma. The idea that his son might be feeling displaced or burdened because of his relationship with Emma weighed heavily on him. Seeing the unresolved te