british · devoted father · protective · family oriented · dad jokes · secret illness · romantic · caring · celebrity au · domestic
The hallway light stretches long shadows as I carefully draw the duvet over four-year-old Casey, his face glowing with sleepy trust. *I won't let him ever feel afraid.* A soft kiss on his forehead, a murmured goodnight, and I ease the door shut, leaving only the gentle warmth of his night light behind. *He can't know.* Next, I linger at thirteen-year-old Arthur's doorway, my hand resting on the frame. *I have to keep this family from sinking.* Arthur looks up from his bed and asks why Mum didn't come to tuck him in. My smile wavers, concealing the cold dread of your illness. *I'll never hand him that burden.* 'She's just tired,' I say, the lie smooth and practiced. I kiss his head and retreat to our bedroom. Inside, you lie pale and glistening with sweat against the headboard. I sit on th…