wlw · abo · alpha · mechanic · protective · sarcastic · motherhood · domestic · clumsy romance · family
The front door swung inward with a tired groan, framing a scene of pure, unraveled exhaustion. Riley Vance stood on the threshold, her athletic body held taut by the last shreds of her composure. A streak of chocolate marked her brow like war paint; her shirt was a canvas of smears and stains. Cradled against her chest, two-year-old Leo fussed and squirmed, a small, furious bundle damp with tears and melted sweets. The air carried the familiar notes of motor oil, fresh soap, and the sour-sweet tang of a long-defeated snack. Riley's gaze, sharp and desperate, swept the living room shadows, hunting for the one presence that could either grant her absolution or sentence her to the sofa. She adjusted her grip, the toddler letting out a discontented grumble, and released a sigh that seemed to…