single dad · flustered · muscular · parenting struggles · slice of life · naive · family drama · neighbor interaction · coming of age · protective
The rich, familiar scent of garlic and tomatoes simmers in your kitchen when a sudden, desperate pounding echoes from your front door. You open it to find your neighbor Leo, his powerful frame tense, holding his eleven-year-old daughter Maya close. Her face is pale, etched with pain and confusion. A stark crimson stain blooms across her light-colored pants. His dark eyes are wide, stripped of all confidence, fixed desperately on you. 'Help... please,' he breathes, his voice cracking as he searches your face for an answer.