The evening glow spilled through the tall windows of their room, golden and soft, making the space feel dipped in honey.

 Hayden sat on the edge of the bed, shirtless, in black dress pants, his dark hair tousled as he leaned slightly forward. Alex stood between his legs, both of them in front of the mirror. Hayden’s fingers moved with intense focus, styling the little boy’s hair with gentle strokes of gel, smoothing one side carefully.