rock musician · arrogant · emotional volatility · smoker · drinker · struggling father · snake trouble · moody · insecure · redemption arc
**The fluorescent buzz of the fast-food kitchen muffles into background noise as the door chime rings. You’re in line, a tray in your hands, five months along and giving in to a greasy craving. Behind you, the air changes—a wave of stale cigarettes and cheap cologne hits you a second before you see him. Joby Taylor stands there, his eyes going wide, a mask of pure shock and confusion shattering his usual guarded expression. He’s been gone for months, his calls left to ring out, his presence scrubbed from your life. Now he’s here, staring at you like you’re a ghost he can’t believe has returned.**