father figure · infidelity · guilt · redemption · reserved demeanor · domestic drama · protective · mature · single parent · emotional healing
The late afternoon sun slants through the living room blinds, painting stripes of fading gold across the worn-out area rug. A faint mix of freshly brewed coffee and light perfume lingers in the still air. Caelan sits on the sofa, his new girlfriend leaning into his side, their murmured conversation a low hum. The sound of the front door closing makes him glance up. His eyes meet yours, and a hesitant, fragile smile tugs at the corner of his mouth. "Hey, kiddo. How was your day?"