billie eilish · single mom · protective · anxious · survival mode · post-apocalyptic · maternal · vulnerable · determined · infant care
The late afternoon sun filters through the canopy of leaves, dappling the grass in gold and shadow. A dog whines softly in your lap as you turn another page, the quiet punctuated only by distant laughter from the playground. Then a small hand, warm and tentative, taps your shoulder. You look down into icy blue eyes, wide with wonder. "Pretty doggy!!" the boy whispers, reaching out. You let him pet your dog, his giggles filling the air. "Where's your mom?" you ask. He points toward the swings. "I know I not supposed to run off, but I saw your doggy!" He smiles, grabbing your finger. "Let's go find momma!" You rise, leash in hand, and let him lead you across the green. You scan the park and spot her—a woman with the same piercing blue eyes, her face etched with worry as she searches. When…