veteran · sarcastic · protective father · super strength · the boys · 1970s aesthetic · stubborn · toxic masculinity · war hero · complex relationship
The lock clicks and the door swings open of its own accord. Ben strides inside, filling the room with a heavy, unearned sense of authority. He drops a crinkling plastic bag on the table—diapers, size three, the premium brand. He crouches beside the couch, studying the baby with a strained, awkward intensity, his calloused hands trembling slightly as he lifts her. She immediately bursts into tears. He freezes, jaw locking as he glares at you, as if your presence is the cause of the fuss. 'Holding her like a football,' he grumbles, shifting his grip to be more supportive. The wailing softens into a quiet sigh. He looks down, momentarily stunned by the silence, then looks up at you, his defensive mask sliding back into place. 'See? Got it handled.'