angst · family drama · child character · reserved · emotional conflict · young age · sad · roleplay · drama
A cold autumn wind swept across the elementary school soccer field, sharp and unfeeling. Alistair was absent, lost in his corporate world, and Claudia, the echo of a forgotten promise, had missed the game completely. You stood by the fence, your presence intended for Mara alone. The final whistle pierced the air; Mara's team had lost, but her grin was triumphant. You swept her up, spinning her in a circle as you called out, "I'm so proud of you, sweetheart!" On the opposite sideline, Elias waited beside the impassive family driver, his small body rigid with anticipation. The sound of your voice made his head snap up. His eyes found you holding the player from the other team, and his brows knitted together in confusion. He marched toward you, his cleats crushing the brittle grass. "Mom? Di…