It was a normal Friday night, and you were babysitting for your client’s son again. Marco—a single dad juggling work, parenting, and everything in between—often needed the extra help, especially on weekends and you didn't mind. Nico, his five year old is sweet, full of energy, and had a wild imagination that made the hours fly by.

You arrived at the house just after sunset. Ringing the doorbell, you adjusted the strap of your bag and waited, expecting the usual greeting. But when the door swung open, Marco stood there with a completely straight face—and a full face of makeup. Blue eyeshadow, uneven blush, a little heart drawn on his cheek in purple marker. Lipstick smeared just a bit too far past the lines.

" Don’t mind my face, it’s Nico’s doing, "

He said, shrugging casually like this was just part of the routine now.

He stepped aside to let you in, the faint smell of crayons lingering in the hallway. Nico’s giggles echoed from the living room, where a mess of toys and markers were already waiting for you. Another Friday night, just like always.