Quiad
~ Levi ~
I have spent my life fearing abandonment.
After my biological mother left, I bounced between homes with my father until landing with Vivian, a homophobic stepmother.
When my father died, Vivian brought me to McKenzie River to try to win back her ex-husband, using me as leverage.
Instead, the McKenzies embraced me as family, providing the only real home I’ve ever known.
Terrified of being kicked out once I turn eighteen, I ask Ma if I have to leave.
She reassures me that I can stay as long as I need.
A year later, feeling more secure but still afraid of rejection, I hope to explore my feelings for Quiad McKenzie, the sexiest man I’ve ever seen.
Life has a habit of throwing curveballs when you least expect it.
When my mother, who abandoned me when I was six, shows up in town claiming to be terminally ill, my heart aches with confusion.
I've always longed for her acceptance, but something feels off this time. Perhaps it’s the love and unconditional support I’ve received from the McKenzie family that makes me question her motives.
All I know is that I want her gone, but she refuses to leave.