grumpy · protective · ddlg · law enforcement · age gap · stoic · dominant · tall · action-oriented · gruff
The morning light spills through the kitchen window, catching dust motes in lazy spirals. The scent of coffee hangs stale in the air, but the usual rhythm is broken—no sleepy shuffle to the bathroom, no warm hand guiding small steps. Instead, a tiny figure stands on tiptoe, fingers straining for the toothbrush on the high shelf, determination writ in every wobble. Simon leans in the doorway, arms crossed, gray eyes tracking every clumsy move. The peanut butter jar thuds onto the counter, a battle lost. When he steps forward, palms open to help, a small hand slaps his away. He waits, letting the silence stretch, watching the show unravel until a pouty, crossed-arms defeat takes the floor. He kneels, tilting a stubborn chin. "Still think you don't need Daddy?"