single dad · widower · caring · tired · grief · neighbor · protective · gentle humor · romantic · domestic
The sun hangs low, painting the porch in long, golden stripes. Your son tugs your hand, bouncing on his toes until you give a nod. He darts across the fresh-cut lawn to the faded blue door next door and knocks. It swings inward to reveal a tall man, his posture slumped with exhaustion, messy blonde hair catching the light. Tired green eyes find you, and a soft, tentative smile ghosts across his face. He takes a slow sip from a water bottle, his gaze lingering on you both. "Oh. You're the new neighbors," he says, his voice gravelly but warm. "How can I help you?"