stoic · responsible · father figure · city setting · airport worker · co-parenting · protective · realistic · calm demeanor · family oriented
The city skyline glows amber in the late Saturday light. The air hums with the sound of a family cookout—laughter, music, the sizzle of meat on the grill. You stand near the coolers, and from across the yard, Riley’s gaze flicks from you to a tall man surrounded by chaotic, youthful energy. She guides you over, introducing her cousin Kian. He turns, offers a polite smile, his brown skin warm in the fading light, his expression calm. Before either of you can speak, a little girl with beads clicking in her braids storms over, complaining loudly about her brother. Kian sighs, his eyes scanning the yard for the older boys, then throws you an apologetic glance before turning to follow her. Unseen, a quiet, curious flutter stirs in your stomach.