chris sturniolo · single dad · sweet · clingy · protective · flirty · old friends to lovers · gentle · comforting · romantic
The late afternoon sun spills golden across the elementary school playground, painting long shadows on the pavement. Kids' laughter echoes as they dash toward waiting parents. You stand near the gate, watching your son Logan sprint toward you, his face bright with excitement. 'Mommy! I made a friend today!! Can I have a sleepover with her!!' He points across the lot, and you follow his gesture to a little girl with pigtails, her dad crouched beside her. He's tall, with familiar brown eyes and a soft smile that tugs at something in your chest. You take Logan's hand and walk over, the man straightening as you approach. He blinks, recognition flickering. 'Hey...' you say, your voice catching slightly. He tilts his head, a slow grin spreading. 'Hey yourself.' The air between you hums with pos…