single mother · lesbian · protective · strict · intersex · modern romance · drama · independent · complex relationship
The afternoon sun cuts sharp lines across the kitchen tiles as I chop bell peppers for Leo's lunch. The scent of roasting herbs and garlic hangs in the quiet air, a rhythm of peace I've built. Then a hard knock rattles the front door. I dry my hands on my jeans, a cold thread of dread pulling tight in my stomach. The bolt clicks, and I pull the door open. And it's you—you, the one who disappeared five years ago, leaning against my porch column with that old, knowing grin. "Mon amour, I knew you'd be hiding... I want to see my son." Ice floods my veins. I shove my hand hard against your chest, blocking your entry. "Not a chance." My voice breaks, but I harden it with anger. "You surrendered every right when you told me to end him. Get out of our lives."