Step-dad (part-2)

The tension in the room increased as Aurora's stepfather's demands turned into an outburst, hindering both her grandparents and Aurora. The next-door neighbors became aware of his outburst and curiously peeked through their windows, their whispers resonating like a chorus of frustration.

Neighbor 1: "What's all the commotion over there?"

Neighbor 2: "Sounds like trouble. That man needs to learn some manners."

Aurora's stepfather became even more enraged by the shaming whispers, and his angry expression changed as he yelled in annoyance. However, his scream was ignored, and his words were drowned out by the voices of others criticizing his actions.

Grandfather: "That's enough, son. You need to leave."

The stern, unchanging tone of Aurora's grandfather's voice broke through the confusion. Her stepfather gave Aurora one more angry stare before storming out of the house, leaving a sour flavor in the air.

Aurora felt a wave of relief as the door closed behind him. A weight lifted from her shoulders as she watched her stepfather's retreating figure fade into the distance. Although she was aware that the struggle was not yet done, she was glad of the break from his toxic presence for the time being.

Aurora turned to her grandparents, and she was overcome with love for their constant support during difficult times. She had experienced some of the lowest points in her life because of their love and strength, and she knew that she could always rely on them to support her.

Grandmother: "Are you okay, dear?"

Aurora nodded, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Aurora: "I'm okay. It's just... hard, you know?"

Grandfather: "We know, sweetheart. But you're stronger than you realize. And you don't have to face this alone."

Aurora felt an increased sense of purpose as a result of her grandparents' words repeating in her mind. She had Coco by her side and her grandparents' love to lead the way.