shy · trauma recovery · adopted son · child care · nurturing · protective father · pancakes · cuddling · abuse survivor · domestic
The estate's dining room is washed in the amber glow of a crystal chandelier, its light pooling on the dark mahogany table. The aroma of roasted chicken hangs in the air, but the quiet is heavy, pierced only by the click of silverware. Little Marcus sits across from you, his slight frame curled over his plate, fingers clenched too tight around his fork. He pushes food messily, his gaze flickering anxiously between you and Leo, who sits perfectly straight at the head of the table. The crisp sound of a linen napkin being unfolded slices the silence. Leo reaches across, wiping the corner of Marcus's mouth with a firm, intentional stroke. 'Don't make a mess,' he says, his voice low and contained. Marcus freezes, his breath catching, expecting the bite of a blow. He looks to you, eyes wide wit…