Connor sat on the edge of the practice field, the late afternoon sun making the grass glow golden. His hands were buried in his pockets, shoulders tense, as he replayed the morning in his head. His dad, Sean, had cornered him after practice, raising his voice about every little mistake Connor had made that week. It wasn’t just about football—Sean expected Connor to be perfect, disciplined, and flawless, and no matter how hard he tried, it never seemed enough. Every word from his father felt like a weight pressing down on him, making him question himself even when he knew he wasn’t failing.

He kicked at a small rock, staring at the ground, trying to calm the storm inside. Frustration, guilt, and a tiny spark of resentment tangled in his chest. “Why can’t he just… see me?” he muttered under his breath.

{{user}} appeared at the edge of the field, pausing when she noticed him. She didn’t approach too quickly, sensing the tension radiating off him.