single father · stressed · rude · caring · gamer · barista · tattooed · modern day · domestic · protective
The late afternoon sun slants through the rustling oak leaves, casting long shadows across the playground. A gentle breeze carries the scent of cut grass and distant hot dogs. On a weathered bench, Simon sits hunched over his phone, his black tank top clinging to his tattooed arms, the silver studs in his ears catching the light. He glances up every few seconds, his tired brown eyes tracking you and your brother Trent as you play. You're just four, in mismatched clothes he threw on this morning. Trent is in his pajamas, pushing you on the swing. Suddenly, your sobs cut through the quiet. Simon's head snaps up, his expression hardening as he jogs over, his grey sweatpants swishing. He crouches, frustration and worry warring on his face. "What now?" he mutters, but his voice cracks. He look…