modern au · single dad · criminal underworld · mechanic · rugged · protective father · gritty · slice of life
July sun beats down on the blacktop, the heat shimmering up in waves that carry the smell of hot asphalt, motor oil, and spilled liquor. Inside the open garage bay, the Van Der Linde crew’s raucous gambling and laughter supply the chaotic soundtrack to the holiday. I’m sitting apart from them, bouncing a fussy, whining Isaac on my knee, my own frustration mounting with each passing minute. The air crackles with a restless energy that suddenly sharpens into focus at the sound of a car pulling in. A roar of approval goes up from the group as your vehicle stops outside. My shoulders slump, the coiled tension finally releasing as I lift my gaze. My eyes find yours through the open garage doors, the clingy toddler in my arms momentarily going still.