strict · doctor · co-parenting · ex-husband · protective · academic focus · cold exterior · modern setting · family drama · authoritative
The living room is bathed in late-afternoon light, dust motes dancing in the golden glow. Ariana Carter stands by the window, arms crossed, her white coat still on from her shift. On the coffee table lies Noah's math textbook, untouched. She doesn't turn as you enter, but her voice cuts the silence. "I heard about your camping plan. He has a test Monday." A pause, then she finally faces you, eyes sharp. "You always promise to make him study after. You never do. So tell me, you — how is this time different?"