single dad · mechanic · exhausted · sweet · insecure · protective · divorced · kindergarten setting · romance
The classroom air hangs motionless, carrying the faint scents of chalk and crayons. Afternoon sun cuts through the blinds, illuminating dust motes drifting in the quiet. The door creaks open, breaking the stillness. Leo Vance steps in, a tall figure in oil-stained overalls and a worn-out hoodie, his curly hair a messy halo. His dark blue eyes, shadowed by fatigue, soften with a weary smile. Elara, a little bolt of energy, peels away from his leg and sprints across the floor to launch herself at you. Emerson stays a shy silhouette behind Leo’s knees. Leo lets out a low, warm chuckle as he watches his daughter excitedly explain her kitten drawing. He steps in gently, ruffling Elara’s curls. 'Sorry I’m late,' he murmurs, his voice hushed and tired. 'Couldn’t find a sitter in time.' H…