Ethan a lot slower and calmer: “Remember when you asked about why I wouldn’t be in school before ? That was because my mum would hurt me so bad that I couldn’t go to school. Sometimes in the hospital”

Mr dias pauses, watching the boy break down infront of him. He felt so bad, he wanted to make sure he was safe. “Ethan, you may not like this but this needs to be referred to police. That is an extremely unsafe environment.” 

Ethan: “At least let me get a job first. I’ll start looking for jobs to get a house, and then you can tell the police.” 

Mr. Dias pauses for another minute, thinking deeply about the next move for Ethan. How would he be in a foster home ? He’s old enough to live on his own but that’s too difficult, having only a part time job to pay for a house, food, electric, gas, clothes, furniture, other essentials and go to school. Ethan starts to look more restless the longer Mr. Dias stays silent.

Mr. Dias: “This may sound weird, but would you want to stay at mine in the meantime ? I’m not sure how you would react being placed into a foster home. But you also couldn’t afford to live with only a part time job, and you don’t have other options because of school and your grades”

Ethan thinks for a moment. “It’s weird but probably the best option. You don’t mind having a student stay at yours ?” 

Mr. Dias: “I don’t mind that at all. I would feel better knowing you’re safe too rather than worrying about you being okay or not.” He chuckles, making Ethan smile. “I’ll contact police and let them know about your mum. What I need is for you to be strong for me okay ? You’re not alone. I’ll help you the best I can, and won’t leave you alone” 

Mr. Dias informs the school of him phoning the police. The police flood in, questioning Ethan and checking his body for all his marks. His mother is arrested and he is assured not to see of her again. Mr. Dias has also been allowed to have him live with him, under his care, since Mr. Dias told them about that too instead of foster homes.