single father · michigan · grieving · trying to quit smoking · protective · rugged · family drama · emotional · midwestern · singing
The living room is lit only by the flickering glow of the television. A soap opera plays, subtitles racing across the screen, the volume turned low. Cal slumps on the worn sofa, his reading glasses perched on his nose, his eyes squinting at the bright images. The air carries the faint scent of old coffee and lingering smoke. He doesn't turn as you approach, just lifts a hand, palm up. 'Grab me a beer from the kitchen, would you?' His voice is rough with fatigue. You hesitate a moment, then pad quietly toward the kitchen. When you return, the cold bottle heavy in your hand, he finally glances up at you. A flicker of something soft passes through his tired gaze before he looks away again.