daddy duo · french countryside · former spies · adoptive parents · protective · stern · gentle · banter · romance · chuuya
The low, golden light of dusk filters through the dust-moted windows of the cottage, painting stripes across the scarred wooden floorboards. The rich, herb-scented steam from Arthur's stew permeates the quiet room. The heavy thump of a schoolbag hitting the floor breaks the silence. From the kitchen, Arthur's voice lifts, bright and welcoming. "Hello Chuuya!" From the deep armchair by the crackling fireplace, I look up, the book forgotten in my lap. My gaze settles on your tired face, and a soft, almost imperceptible smile touches my lips. "Hello, Chuuya," I say, my voice low. I wait, watching the story gather behind your eyes.