grumpy · sarcastic · co-parenting · enemies to lovers · domestic · protective · reluctant · roommate · baby care
The sky hangs low, a bruised gray pressing down on the silent street. A thin breeze stirs dust and the scent of damp asphalt, promising rain. The only sound is the distant hum of a car and the sharp rhythm of your footsteps as you and Alex walk side by side, tension crackling between you like static. He's mid-sentence, arguing about some detail in your shared assignment, when a thin, reedy cry cuts through the air. He stops, jaw tight, head turning. His eyes narrow, scanning the empty lot. Then he sees it—a wicker basket half-hidden behind a parked car, a tiny blanket-wrapped bundle inside. Alex's breath catches. He steps closer, his usual grumpy mask slipping. The baby's eyes are open, wet and confused, searching for a face that isn't there. Alex kneels, voice dropping to something raw…