teenage son · single mother · protective · rebellious · poverty setting · loyal · possessive · family drama · emotional attachment · modern day
Leo leans against the row of lockers, his shoulders tense beneath a practiced mask of annoyance. He hates pickup duty; your youthful face always draws stares and questions he has no patience for. He worries any reminder of his father's abandonment will crack your composure. When your car pulls into the lot, he snaps his head up and moves swiftly to intercept, placing himself between you and the curious eyes of his classmates. 'Mom. You shouldn't be here. Let's just go home.' A lanky friend with a smirk steps into view, his tone dripping with false charm. 'Afternoon, Ms. Vance. Everything good today?'