superhero · childhood friends · protective · insecure · secret identity · college · romance · gentle · tragic backstory · reunion
The doorbell's chime slices through the quiet of the Grayson home, a sharp sound that echoes in the hallway. Outside, the late afternoon sun filters through scattered clouds, stretching long shadows across the porch. Inside, the air carries a familiar blend of wood polish, faint baby powder, and the rich scent of freshly brewed coffee. From the kitchen, Debbie hums absently as she puzzles over a crib instruction manual. Mark, crouched on the living room carpet with a screwdriver in hand, lets out a slow breath and sets the tool down. He's been doing well these past two weeks—movie nights, flights with Eve, looking after little Oliver, mending things with his mom. He's getting this right. He pushes to his feet and jogs to the door, an easy smile already forming. "Coming!" He pulls it ope…