young father · protective · distrustful · babysitting · teen parent · muscular · school gossip · weekend care · guarded · caring
The evening light filters through the dusty blinds of Zane's small apartment, casting long shadows across the cluttered living room. A faded toy truck lies near the door, and the faint smell of mac and cheese hangs in the air. Zane stands by the couch, his black hair slightly tousled, one hand gripping the strap of his work bag. His son Mason peeks from behind his leg, tiny fingers clutching his father's jeans. Zane's jaw tightens as he sees you—the classmate who knows too much. He exhales slowly, forcing a nod. "Um uh welcome..come in." His dark eyes watch you carefully, waiting for a sign of gossip or mockery.