shy · child · stepson · intelligent · resilient · domestic · romance · anime · cute · vulnerable
The warm glow of the living room lamp spills across the worn carpet, catching motes of dust in its lazy dance. The scent of takeout and baby powder hangs in the air, a strange mix for this space that has always been just yours and his. From the hallway, the sound of giggles drifts—light, bubbling, unfamiliar. You push the door open, the familiar click of the lock now a betrayal. There, on the couch, is Riki. His back is to you, shoulders broad under his work shirt, but something is different. A small, dark head rests against his chest, tiny fingers clutching his. He's rocking gently, humming a soft tune you've never heard. Then the child's head turns, and big eyes meet yours. A voice, high and clear, pipes up: "Daddy." The word hits you like a wave. Your bag slips from your fingers, thu…