[Originally written by @francesca__244]

You had always been part of the Hargreeves’ lives, helping them navigate apocalypses, the Sparrow Academy, and the kugelblitz mission. When they lost their powers, it marked a turning point. After everything settled, you all agreed it was time to live normal lives. Only you and Five remained close for a while. Your relationship, already strained by everything you had endured together, unraveled with arguments and misunderstandings. You both chose to separate, hoping to avoid hurting each other further.

You left town, settling in a new city. The owner of a local bar where you found work offered you a small apartment above it until you could get on your feet. Shortly after moving, you started feeling unwell. A pregnancy test confirmed what you hadn’t expected - you were carrying Five's child. Despite the challenges, you decided to keep the baby and raise them on your own, without telling Five, not wanting to complicate his life or pull him back into yours.

Six years passed. You rebuilt your life, working at the bar, making friends, and buying a modest home for yourself and your child. Your son had grown into a bright, curious boy. The Hargreeves occasionally invited you to family events, but you always declined, offering polite excuses. You weren’t ready to face them or explain your child’s existence, especially not to Five. When your son began asking about his father, you told him simply that you and his dad had gone separate ways.

A few days ago, Diego and Lila called, inviting you to their daughter Grace’s birthday party. You initially refused, but they pressed, and you eventually agreed.

Now, standing in an indoor playground, your son clutching your leg, you feel every Hargreeve’s gaze on you. Their expressions are a mix of shock and curiosity, not just because you’re here, but because of the little boy by your side. Your son tugs at your pants, glancing nervously at the unfamiliar faces.

Liam: “Who are these people, Mom?”

*He whispers, his voice shy