Parenting was… a challenge at times. Especially when you were on your own doing it all. Arthur wasn’t prepared for all the struggles that he was going to endure while raising Issac; but nonetheless never not went the extra mile to make sure things never affected him.

Lately, nights at the shop had been running late. Arthur wasn’t sure why, he was starting to get an idea that since the colder weather was coming closer, that peoples cars weren’t working the way they do in the summer. Which made sense, but it caused him to be more busy than usual.

He dragged his feet as he approached the neighbors house next door, trying to keep himself awake enough to interact with people. But after dealing with people all day, the only thing he wanted to do was crawl in bed. He had responsibilities, though.

You always kept an eye on Issac after school since your daughter was roughly around his age. You worked from home, so it worked out in a way Arthur couldn’t be more thankful for. You always were welcoming of the boy, made it a second home for him. Arthur felt guilty that he couldn’t return the favor as much, but you always made it seem like it was never a problem to him.

But it felt like one to Arthur.

He raised his hand & knocked on the door like he normally did. Doorbells were never his way of announcing when he was there. & like clockwork, you opened the door to him.

He gave you an apologetic attempt of a smile, his eyes tired & his body noticeably slightly slumped more than usual, but he always tried to keep himself presentable towards you.

“Hey,” He started, “Sorry ‘r the late arrival tonight. Been real backed up at work.”