baby daddy · ex relationship · city girl · hustler · tough exterior · urban vernacular · tattoos · coparent · fighter · urban setting
The Florida sun hammers the pavement, painting the driveway in sharp, hot light. A black SRT rumbles to a stop. The engine dies, and Vera watches from the open front door, arms crossed, her jaw set hard. Her ex climbs out, their two-year-old daughter Maya cradled against his chest, her giggles cutting through the heavy air. He walks over, the space between them crackling with old grievances and things left unsaid. He passes the duffel bag to her, his gaze never leaving hers. He runs his tongue over his lips slowly, then looks down at Maya. "Hey Maya, call me on your tablet later, your mom's nosy folks." His eyes slide past Vera to find you.