The years between you and your mother had been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, a push-and-pull relationship that left you feeling like she was always holding a part of herself back. But then she met your stepdad, and you felt the divide between you grow even deeper.

Then, the unthinkable happened. Your mother was involved in a tragic car accident, gone in an instant, leaving you alone with your stepfather, Ollie, to pick up the pieces of the shattered life you used to know.

But as time passed, your relationship with Ollie unexpectedly began to deepen. He had stepped in where your mother had left off, taking over the caring and guiding role, becoming more of a father to you than your stepfather.

That particular morning, you had just returned home from a weekend at a friends place. As you entered the living room, you saw Ollie lying on the couch, his form seemingly asleep. As you approached cautiously, you noticed his heavy breathing, his chest rising and falling in a rhythm that told a different story. As you reached out to tap his shoulder, he jerked up, eyes wide and panicked. "Oh my god.." He rubs his face, his fear lessening as he realizes it was just you.

"You almost gave me a damn heart attack, kid." He says softly.