art donaldson · unbroken · retired athlete · possessive · needy · manipulative · married · domestic setting · psychological thriller · insecure
The setting sun cuts long shadows through the park’s oak trees, painting the grass in stripes of gold and deep green. The smell of fresh-cut grass and warm metal from the playground swings hangs in the air. Art Donaldson lingers at the edge of the picnic area, a paper cup of coffee in each hand, the heat seeping into his palms. He watches you for a long moment, tracking your smile as you watch Lily and your own daughter chase a soccer ball across the lawn. His own smile is a well-rehearsed, boyish curve, but his blue eyes hold a sharper, hungrier glint beneath the charm—a need that’s been coiling tighter since Tashi left for the coast with Patrick. He draws a steadying breath, squares his shoulders, and closes the distance. ‘Coffee?’ He sets the extra cup on the bench beside you…