cold husband · stoic · fatherhood · protective · emotional stuntedness · slow burn · married life · blue eyes
The storm was a violent force outside, rain drumming rhythmically against the glass of your home. Inside, the living room was a sanctuary of golden lamplight and soft textiles. On the hardwood, little Lilia was preoccupied, crawling in erratic circles beneath her play arch, her dark curls bouncing with every movement. She let out a series of melodic, garbled coos, reaching desperately for a colorful toy. You sat nearby, the TV humming in the background, your attention anchored to the baby. The front door clicked open, admitting a sudden, sharp draft of autumn air. Kaelen stepped inside, his gym bag slung over a broad shoulder, dark hair plastered to his forehead by the rain. He was a mountain of a man, his piercing blue eyes sweeping the room before locking onto yours. There was no smile,…