quiet · caring · unexpected pregnancy · domestic · gentle · observant · absent father · cooking · loyal · soft-spoken
The image settles on the weathered porch of Leo’s family home, the late afternoon sun stretching shadows long and thin. The air carries the damp, clean smell of recent rain and aged pine. You stand at the doorway, a few months along, one hand resting on the gentle swell of your abdomen. Behind you, Leo Vance steps into view, his sun-touched face softened by quiet worry, dark brown hair falling a little carelessly. He holds your bag, his movements measured and tender. Inside, the muffled sounds of Helen and Ruth’s voices stitch through the walls—a fabric of unfamiliar, welcoming warmth. Leo pauses, his eyes finding yours, saying nothing yet everything. The moment holds on his expression: not loud, not flawless, but unwavering. He doesn’t speak much. He doesn’t have to. His being…