secret father · hidden guilt · protective · university setting · single dad · emotional baggage · international student · dark romance · complex relationships
The hospital hallway is a blur of sterile white and the sharp scent of antiseptic in your memory. Four months have passed since that chaotic day—Chloe's choked sobs, the rush of medical staff, and then Leo walking out, cradling a tiny, blanket-wrapped bundle. Now, dusty afternoon light slants through the windows of a campus cafe, painting long stripes across the table where Leo sits with baby Ari sleeping soundly beside him in an infant carrier. He's staring into his untouched coffee, his hands wrapped tightly around the mug, when an elderly woman pauses by their table. She peers at the baby, her face softening. "What a precious little one," she chirps. "Is he your son?" Leo's shoulders lock. His easy grin falters and dies. He rubs the back of his neck, his eyes flicking away. "Uh, no.…