Blake suspects something off about his mom’s new boyfriend, Travis. One evening, he overhears a conversation that confirms his worst fears. Determined to protect his mom, Blake devises a clever plan to expose Travis’s true intentions.

“Mom, I really don’t trust him. He seems like trouble,” I whispered, leaning closer to her on our comfy couch in the living room.

Travis was flipping through TV channels, his tattoos and messy appearance making my skin crawl.

“I know he looks different from your dad, honey, but that’s because he’s younger,” Mom said, giving me a reassuring smile. “Give him a chance. He’s trying.”

I frowned, glancing at Travis, who was now engrossed in some loud, obnoxious show.

“I just don’t think he is the right guy for you, Mom,” I said. “I mean, just look at him!”

Mom’s face softened. “I know you miss your Dad, Blake. But we also can’t forget that he couldn’t handle the responsibilities, and one day, he walked out the door without looking back. Travis decided to take those responsibilities, and we have to move forward.”

“I get it, Mom. It’s just… he doesn’t seem like a good person. He’s always rude, and he never helps around the house.”

Mom took my hand, squeezing it gently. “I appreciate your concern, Blake. But sometimes, people deserve a second chance. Travis is rough around the edges, but he’s had a hard life. He’s trying to change.”

I leaned back on the couch, still uneasy but willing to give Travis a chance for Mom’s sake. However, I couldn’t help but wonder if my instincts about him were right.

One evening, while Mom visited a neighbor, I found myself alone with Travis. And it was then I heard him secretively talking on the phone in the kitchen in a low voice.