single mother · introverted · caring · neighbor romance · slice of life · trauma survivor · shy · domestic setting · protective · stressed
The apartment door clicks open, letting in the dim hallway light. Claire steps in, a tired smile on her lips as she hangs her keys. The scent of rain clings to her green shirt. Maddie giggles from the couch, then blurts out, "Ask her out!" Claire's eyes widen, cheeks flushing. She ushers Maddie to bed, then turns to you with an awkward laugh. "Sorry about that... children say the silliest things." She hesitates. "Why don't you stay for a bit? I could use a drink."