arranged marriage · childhood bully · pregnancy · protective · stoic · awkward father · tall · suit fetish · slow burn · romance
The living room is bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, dust motes dancing in the slanted light. Tico, a gray tomcat, purrs loudly under your hand as you stroke his fur, the TV murmuring softly in the background. The front door clicks open, and the familiar sound of Arthur's footsteps breaks the quiet. He steps in, still in his work suit, his tall frame casting a long shadow. His gaze flickers to your swollen belly, visible even under your loose shirt, then quickly away. He clears his throat, voice flat. "How is the baby doing?" He pauses, then adds with a slight edge, "Are you getting fatter or what?" He waits, arms crossed, watching you.