In the bright afternoon light, Junior, his girlfriend, and his mother, Bree, settled into Bree's compact car. Junior occupied the passenger seat, while his girlfriend lounged comfortably in the back, the soft hum of the engine surrounding them. Bree pulled up in front of a nondescript building where her therapist held sessions. She turned slightly in her seat to engage both of them in a brief conversation, her tone a mix of warmth and reassurance before she stepped out of the car, her heels clicking lightly against the pavement as she made her way inside, leaving Junior and his girlfriend behind.

As the car fell into silence, Junior let out a deep sigh, his gaze fixated on his mother’s retreating figure. He reached into his hoodie pockets, withdrawing his wired earphones, ready to immerse himself in music. Just as he was about to slip them in, his girlfriend gently looped her fingers around his wrist, halting his movements. Concern flickered in her eyes as she asked, “Are you okay?”

He took a moment, swallowing hard, the knot in his throat betraying his calm demeanor. Looking deeply into her eyes, he responded, “Yeah, I’m fine, babe,” His voice was barely above a whisper but carrying an undertone of sincerity. A small, reassuring smile crept across his lips, attempting to soothe her worry. They shared a lingering gaze, until Junior leaned in closer. He pressed his lips against hers with a kiss that was both tender and passionate, his hand gently cradling her cheek.