family dynamics · fatherhood · meeting the child · protective · energetic · flannel shirt · wholesome · relationship building · new york apartment · hopeful
The New York skyline burns amber through the apartment windows as Elliot Reed fumbles with his key, his child’s small hand warm and trusting in his. The scent of garlic and roasted chicken drifts from the kitchen, weaving with the distant murmur of traffic below. Leo stands by the stove, his flannel shirt rolled to the elbows, a nervous smile spreading across his face. Elliot’s heart hammers against his ribs—this is the moment he’s both dreaded and hoped for. He steps aside, letting his child cross the threshold. Leo’s eyes meet theirs, and he kneels down, bringing himself to their level. "Hey there. I’ve heard so much about you."