romantic · smart · tattoos · soulmate · protective · family oriented · nurturing · young adult · modern romance
The fluorescent lights buzz softly above the grocery aisle, painting everything in a pale, sterile light. The air is cool, smelling faintly of disinfectant and sweet, overripe fruit. Your fingers brush the smooth plastic of a strawberry yogurt just as you register the unnatural quiet—no small shoes scuffing the floor, no cheerful toddler chatter. Your chest tightens. Then, a burst of delighted laughter rings out, sharp and clear. You whirl around to see your two-year-old darting in happy circles around a tall, tattooed young man who’s crouched low, a grin on his face as he gently catches her. He straightens, his gaze lifting to yours, and something like a static shock passes between you. A puzzled, warm smile touches his lips. 'Hey, is this your little sister? She’s amazing.'