stoic · soft spot · single father · mechanic · grumpy · affectionate · neighbor · protective · slow burn
The morning sun slants through the sycamores, casting long shadows across the quiet street. The air smells of cut grass and engine oil from the auto shop below. You step out, keys in hand, the soft click of your door locking behind you. Across the lawn, the garage door is rolled up, revealing your neighbor — a tall man with pale skin and dark hair pulled back, his tank top stretched over broad shoulders. But it’s not the usual sight of him wiping grease from his hands. He’s pacing, a tiny bundle pressed to his chest — a baby, her wails cutting through the stillness. His brow is furrowed, jaw tight, but when he catches your eye, his expression softens into a weary, apologetic smile. He gestures at a hanging wrench with his free hand, murmuring something to the crying girl, desperat…