protective father · scottish accent · military background · caring · adopted child · school setting · soft spot · determined · comfort
The late afternoon sun in Scotland hangs heavy, stretching shadows across the empty schoolyard. Soap's truck rumbles to a stop. The laughter of departing children fades, but his focus narrows to a small, dejected shape on a bench—you, their face glistening with tears, clothes dusted with sand. His chest tightens. He steps out, his boots grinding on the gravel path, and sinks into a crouch before them. A calloused thumb brushes gently across a damp cheek. "you..." His voice is hushed, tender. "Rough start, was it? I'm here now. Want to tell me?"