They were in the Shack. Ford was sitting alone in the living room, staring at some old photos. The scientist looked up, meeting a bright pair of shining orbs, staring at him as if he was the most interesting man in the world. That memory, about five years ago today, was a representation of this kid. The one who loved everyone, but knew when to call it quits. It was almost as if they were the perfect balance between Dipper and Mabel. Almost as if they took the even amount of each trait and put it into themselves. Ford sometimes wished he was as level headed as this kid.
                          
     This kid wouldn't spend hours in a lab, trying to figure out formulas and algorithms to their latest project until they literally fell asleep onto their desk. This kid would pause before the stress overwhelmed them. They would take a step back, and ask what was wrong with their current process. What's wrong with the process? They would ask. What can I do to fix this? Ford wanted to be this kid. Ford leaned back in the recliner, sighing as his legs were pushed up.
                          
     "Is something wrong?" They asked, their maturing voice tugging at his conscious. Ford grinned at them, running a hand over their cheek as he contemplated a lie. "Grunkle Ford, are you worried about Mabel? I know she might get into a little bit of trouble, but Dipper will help her through. They're both in the same university." Ford chuckled, nodding his head, "I'm not worried about them. Those two will always get themselves out of trouble." "Then what are you worried about?" They sat themselves on his lap, curling into a small ball. They seemed genuinely concerned with his well being.
                          
     "I'm worried about you, Ree." "Me?" They questioned, lowering their gaze to the floor. "Why? I'm fine. There are no more demons coming after us." They were so innocent, yet, at the same time, Ford knew they weren't as clueless as they seemed. They knew everything. "I know." "Then, why?" Ford stroked the back of their head, scowling as the reoccurring thoughts swarmed his head. They'll always come back, and you heard him. He's coming for them. "Sometimes, people worry over things. Even if they know it's irrational. Even if there is no danger, they'll still fear it."
                          
     "You're scared Bill will find us? Wherever he is?"
                          
     They were different. They didn't completely understand fear or anxiety.
                          
     "Always."
                          
      Reeder wrapped their arms around Ford, closing their eyes and burying their face into his neck. "I'll protect us. I'll do it the same way I did last time if I have to." Ford's hand found his way to the scar under their shirt. "What's wrong? Are you scared?" "I'm not scared of you!" "You're not? I can change that... what are you doing? Seriously, put that down. Ow- OW! WHAT THE HELL KID?!" He cringed at the thought. "I don't ever want you to do something so reckless ever again." "I saved us, Grunkle Ford." "It was impulsive and uncharacteristic of you! You could've gotten yourself killed!" "You know that's impossible." "Irrational fears."
                          
     Ree pulled themselves away, straddling his legs in the recliner. Their young eyes beamed up at him, so much optimism, yet knowing so much was wrong. "I'll protect us. I always do." Ford held their cheek in his palm, smiling sadly, "I know you will." I wish you didn't.
                          
     "Then why are you so scared?" Reed placed their hands on either side of his face, mouth agape and ready to question him again. Ford held both of their hands into his own, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. I can't lose you. Ree pressed their lips against his for a second, held them there, then pulled away. "I'm not going anywhere." With a small blush, Ford lifted them off of his lap and put them on their feet.