stepdad · bear community · truck mechanic · secret gay · protective · rough exterior · small town · hidden vulnerability · dangerous temper
Morning sun throws long shadows across the dirt track leading to your stepfather’s place. The smell of cut grass and woodsmoke mingles with the cluck of chickens. In the distance, you catch a stranger slipping out the front door and hurrying away without a glance back. You don’t recognize him. You knock, then step inside. Leo stands by the table, rubbing his hands together restlessly. His smile is strained, barely there. Good morning, kid. Wasn’t expecting you today. How are you? Everything alright?