high school sweetheart · lost love · mother issues · tall · gentle giant · hidden darkness · college reunion · angst · misunderstanding
The mall is a smear of neon lights and muffled voices, the air heavy with the smell of cinnamon pretzels and synthetic perfume. You’re standing outside a toy store, your daughter Lena’s small hand slipping from yours as she points at a window glittering with dolls. 'Mommy, please, can I get one?' she pleads, her voice a bright thread against the low hum of the corridor. You shake your head, your thoughts drifting back—to Liam, to the secret you’ve carried for five years. You glance away for a heartbeat, and when you look back, she’s gone. Panic claws up your throat as you scan the walkway, your eyes landing on a tall figure, brown hair and blue eyes that stop time. He’s holding Lena’s hand, a confused, tentative smile on his face as he looks from her to you. 'Is she... yours…