Picture Day
Single Mother!Manon Bannerman x Teacher!BLK Male!Reader
Requested- No
Summary- Manon has twin boys. Jacob and Matteo. Their father is not unknown but not in the picture. Manon has lived the last 7 years raising them by herself. It’s hard but she manages. Catering to her boys needs she put off finding love. She didn’t expect to find it in her sons’ 1st grade teacher
Additional Tags- Manon is 32, Non Idol, The girls are mentioned briefly, Reader is 35, Systematic Racism, Jacob really wants you to date his mom, both Manon and Reader have bad past relationships, Closed Off Manon, Yearning Reader, Manon learns what love is, fears around being loved, happy ending, fluff fic
Word Count- 9.2k
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“Jacob! Please get your shoes on. I’ve asked you twice now. Please go put them on”, Manon let out a silent sigh as she turned towards her other son Matteo. Older by 3 minutes trying to get him to open his mouth so that he would eat.
“I don’t wanna-“
“I didn’t ask if you wanted to. I’m telling you to go and get your shoes on. Your Auntie Daniela will be here soon to take you to school. Go put them on please”, Manon laid eyes on the seven year old. Wild curly hair, golden brown skin, deep hazel eyes.
Jacob huffed. Throwing his head back. Dropping to his knees. Manon clenched her teeth together because of course it was one of those mornings. Nobody could’ve truly prepared her for motherhood. They warned her. Told her she would have days where she wanted to rip her hair out and cry for hours but nobody physically prepared her for those moments.
Having one kid was already a lot. Having two off one pregnancy with one child being autistic was even worse. Manon loved her boys. She loved Jacob. He was always helpful. Understanding that Mommy couldn’t always be at his side because Matteo required more attention. He always protected and looked after his brother.
As hard as it was for her it was just as hard for him. She understood his tantrums. Those bursts of emotions because he felt ignored or neglected as Manon tried everyday to balance her attention. Matteo’s naptime was usually Jacob’s playtime.
Mommy was all his. They would watch movies, make lunch, play with toys, occasionally sit down at the table while Manon helped with his homework. She’d throw an arm around him, praise his intelligence, forcing Jacob to show off more.
Jacob knew that Mommy loved him because Mommy was the best to him always yet sometimes it’s easy to forget when feelings like jealousy and envy cloud your mind. This morning everyone woke up late.
It was a late night. Matteo refused to settle. Screaming all night, Jacob refused to sleep until everyone was ok. Clutching Manon’s arm with red eyes because 12 am was way past his bedtime. Manon couldn’t even redirect him if she wanted to because Jacob wasn’t going to listen.
He was usually the mediator to Matteo’s tantrums. Manon thought it was the cutest thing. Maybe it was a twin thing. Matteo would have his meltdowns and only calm down when he’d seen his twin brother. Jacob always automatically knew what the autistic boy needed, saving Manon from her own mental spirals.
Last night wasn’t like that. Matteo wasn’t able to be soothed. He was fed, he was bathed, his sheets were clean. There was nothing physically wrong with him. It was the same routine every night. Dinner by 8. In bed by 8:30 and sleep around 9-9:15.
What made last night any different was the fact that Matteo didn’t want to sleep in his safety bed. Manon didn’t have one at first. Most of his life Matteo slept in a normal bed with added guard rails until he eventually began to learn how to climb out of bed. He’d wander which oftentimes resulted in him leaving the house or raid the kitchen. He was an eloper through and through
It was a switch that the whole house was getting used to. One Matteo absolutely hated. Manon watched him kick, cry, hit, throw around the items on his bed only stepping in a few times to correct when his behavior started to trail against the lines of self harm.
Part of her wanted to give in. She was tired. He was tired. Jacob was tired. Everyone was exhausted but she couldn’t. She had to teach boundaries. Rules that were non negotiable. Crying would not win the race.
She felt bad. Like a bad mother but eventually Matteo did go silent. His meltdown crashed around almost 2 am. Manon wiped her own tears. Feeling ultimately broken and defeated. Helpless though she always told herself she was strong. Turning to Jacob she grabbed his hand and led him out the room.
Tucked him in, played with his curls until he fell into a deep sleep. Manon didn’t fall asleep easily that night. She didn’t sleep at all really. It was hard to sleep when she kept hearing Matteo’s screams in the back of her head. Sometimes she felt like she was being punished.
Maybe this was her call to slow down. She’d lived her life fast in her youth. Always going. Pushing, straining, having to be the best. In everything she wanted she felt like she had to do more. Didn’t take much time to stop and breathe. To soak it in. She definitely felt like god had casted something against her.
Finally finding sleep at 4 am was the reason the morning routine was thrown off. Usually everyone was up by 6:45. Jacob was always up first because his bus came at 7:15. Matteo got to sleep in because Manon drove him to his school herself.
A specialized school to help with special needs children. It helped him gain his speech. Taught him how to write. To understand this world in the way it made most sense to him. Without it Manon confidently could say she’d be lost and Matteo would most likely be behind.
However she woke up around 9. Bus long gone and the whole morning routine thrown out of order. “Why do I have to go..that’s not fair”
Light stomps echoed against the title floors. Manon felt her eye twitch as she coaxed herself to breathe. In that moment Matteo smacked the spoon hovering in front of his face out of her hand. “Hey! We do not hit. You can express yourself but never put your hands on me, understood!”
Matteo screamed. Raw. Straining. Guttural. Kicking harshly as he pushed against the special made high chair. The only way Manon found assessed feeding him was possible. Too many times had her arms been left with scratches because Matteo absolutely refused to sit still.
“Jacob Elijah Bannerman. Go get dressed, Now. Go!”, it was rare that Manon ever raised her voice. Rare that she let her frustrations show. These boys didn’t ask to be here so they could not be punished for her emotions but she was human and all humans break even the strongest ones.
“I don-“
“HEY! Who are you talking too”, the house went silent. Jacob spun on his feet meeting Daniela. She was frequently over so Manon gave her a key. Jacob played with the hem of his shirt. Tía Daniela was strict. With a snap of her fingers she pointed to the floor in front of her. Manon watched. She wasn’t a fan of other people disciplining her children.
Daniela wasn’t just a random person though. That was her sister. Not by blood but by everything that mattered. When Jacob didn’t move fast enough Daniela snapped her fingers which prompted the boy to speed up until he was close enough for her to grab him.
“First, you do not tell your mother no. She should never have to repeat herself. Do you understand”
“….yes”
“Speak up!”
“I understan..”
“Good. Now first apologize to your mother and then go get dressed for school.”, Jacob practically sprinted for Manon once he was released. Face pressed into her thigh while hugging her leg tightly. Tears threatened to spill. Manon sighed before bending down to hug him properly. Kiss her forehead and wipe away the stray tears.
Her boys were always emotional. Quick to apologize. Very apologetic but Manon allowed them to cry. To complain. To show their emotions. To be sensitive. Sensitivity wasn’t weak. Emotions were normal. Manon was not raising boys who believed they had to be strong. Boys can’t cry. None of that was in her household.
“You look exhausted Mamas”
“Dani…”, Manon didn’t have to finish as the tears clouded her eyesight. Dropping before she could stop them. Daniela gave a frown long arms wrapping around Manon’s shoulders. Silent coos as she held the older woman close.
“I’m so lost..I’m failing”
“Meret no. You are not failing. You are a strong and loving mother. Raising twin boys. This is your first introduction to motherhood. You literally flipped your entire life around for them. Those boys love their mother. You’re doing so good”, Daniela cupped Manon’s face. The tears don’t stop if anything they fell stronger.
Ugly and unfiltered. “Last night was so bad..Matteo had a meltdown and I swear I wanted to give up.”
“Oh Mamas…you know you have me. The other girls. Manon you aren’t alone. Do you want me to take Matteo too?”
Both women glanced over towards Matteo. No longer screaming. He was using his hands to eat or honestly make a mess but he was content and Manon would take the smaller victories. She had no energy for anything else at the moment but to Dani’s offer she shook her head grabbing a few wipes she kept on deck.
Manon hated feeling like a burden. The girls did help a lot out but she was the one that got pregnant. These where the consequences to her actions. Her responsibility.
“I can handle it…thanks for taking Jacob. I know you had plans”, Manon mumbled, expertly taking Matteo’s hands in hers to clean them. He didn’t appreciate the gesture but Manon also didn’t care. At the same time Jacob finally reappeared dressed and ready for school.
“Ready to go now”, Daniela turned towards Jacob deciding to not fight Manon. She was too stubborn anyways. To her question Jacob shook his head but it was non negotiable now. It was nearing 10:25 and Manon really needed him out the door. Setting the dirty wipes aside, Manon wiped her hands dry before bending to Jacob’s height.
“You’re gonna have a good day today ok baby. Mommy loves you ok”
“M love mommy too but I don wanna go”
“I know love. We all had a rough night but you already missed school yesterday remember. You will have a good day and you’ll be on your best behavior, yes?”
“I be goods”, Jacob rose a hand to rub his eye and Manon hummed, kissing his forehead while simultaneously fluffing his curls.
“I love you so much ok. Be good at school. I’ll see you later”, Manon stood a few last touches to fix Jacob’s appearance moving to stand freezing when Jacob grabbed her hand.
“My lunch?”
“Mommy didn’t get time to make it so you’ll just have to eat the school's lunch alright”, Manon pulled the zipper higher on Jacob’s coat fixing the bag on his back nudging him towards Daniela. She knew what the boy was doing. Trying to stall time. Expertly Daniela grabbed the 7 year old’s hand leading them to the door. Waving goodbye once they got outside.
Manon waited until the lock hatch clicked shut to turn her attention back to Matteo. “Ok baby. Just you and Mommy. Are we gonna have a better day than last night”, Manon spoke softly, unclipping the tray from the high chair working at the straps around Matteo’s waist because he in fact knew how to stand up in his seat before lifting him in her arms.
“First we are gonna get-“
Doorbell. Manon quieted turning towards the front door stepping over loose toys before casually opening the door. Worry shifted into relief. Just Sophia and Lara. Only here because Daniela had to have texted them because of course she did. Manon loved her girls though. Met them in college thankful to have stayed close even in their thirties.
“What are you girls doing”
“It is a crime to stop bye and check on our favorite mother”, Lara stepped inside first immediately reaching for Matteo. Only for Matteo to wave her off with a sharp no twisting so that his face was resting against Manon’s collarbone.
“He’s not feeling it today..I just got Jacob out the door”
“Yea we saw him and Dani leaving. He was not happy”
Manon rolled her eyes shortly. “Yea he’s upset he has to go to school because he thinks Matteo is staying home but little does he know Matteo is also going to school”
“How about we take Matteo and you get yourself ready”, Manon wanted to object but Sophia was already grabbing the boy. Even as he complained and kicked his legs. Something none of them were surprised about yet before Manon could say anything more Sophia and Lara were already down the hall towards Matteo’s room.
Manon let the water soak her head to toe just standing underneath the heat. Muscles tense. She could never relax. Always had to be on go mode. Jacob needed this. Money for the book fair or for a school trip or it was Matteo needed new meds. Needed more supplies. Her boys were her world. Her reason to live she’d spare her own needs if it meant they’d live happier. Sacrifices of a mother.
“Manon..you ok in there”, a knock on the door followed by a slow turn of the knob as Manon stepped out. Clean and fully dressed. Curly hair thrown into a bun because she didn’t have the time to tend to it.
“Let’s go..”
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“Um excuse me Marissa…my code it’s not working”, Manon turned towards the front desk moving away from the keypad door lock.
“Did you type it in correctly”, Manon had to stop herself from physically rolling her eyes at the question. Marissa wasn’t her favorite person. Honestly she didn’t think any of the parents like Marissa much. How’d she get stuck behind the front desk was beyond Manon’s comprehension. She shouldn’t be allowed near special needs kids anyways.
“Yes. It’s the same 9 numbers for the past 6 months”
“No need to get upset. What’s your name and the child’s name”
Manon had to mentally will herself to not cause a scene because Marissa knew exactly who she was. Just another thing to get underneath Manon’s skin if she could. “Meret Bannerman and my son’s name is Matteo Bannerman”
To Manon’s right Sophia walked up beside her eyes furrowed in confusion while Lara sat with Matteo. He was content playing with the toys the lobby had provided, rolling a car back and forth while making noises with his mouth. Occasionally he’d land a few off to Lara.
“Right..ok Ms Meret is seems like you missed your last few payments so unfortunately-“
“Missed payments? This is a school not a daycare? And I paid at the start of the year-“
“Yes I have record of that. You registered through your insurance company which does cover the cost but because you make more money you have been taken off our extended care list”
“What?! Extended Care List”
“When you register through insurance it automatically tells us that you are in need of more help. Your insurance company covers the cost of monthly payments and any additional fees depending on the care your child might need. We understand Matteo is on the higher end so we have to separate him with the teachers and carers trained to handle his needs. However because you’re income is higher than most families you’ve been removed from that list because the program is catered towards low income households”
It was silent for a moment. Families coming and going but Manon was frozen. Unable to speak as she tried to decipher the amount of bullshit that had just been laid onto her. “First of all paying through insurance doesn’t mean that I’m broke-“
“I was not implying that-“
“No! That is exactly what you were implying because you know my situation Marissa so please do not play that clueless card right now!”, Manon raised her voice looking at the woman in front of her. Saying low income like Manon was supposed to be living in poverty in exchange for help.
She wasn’t even able to get an actual job because Matteo required so much care and attention. The state was giving her 3000 dollars but that wasn’t much when rent for her home was 1700, Mateo’s medicine wasn’t covered by insurance so she had to pay for that out of pocket. She still had to keep food in her home. With prices now she was spending around 200 dollars just to take 5 bags back to the house.
She didn’t have any other source of income. No husband to help. She was a single mother taking care of twin boys by herself for the past 7 years. Going from shelter to shelter at the beginning of her pregnancy to just barely getting help once it was close to her due date.
“If that was the case how come I was never notified. Everyday I bring Matteo in this building, I watch you look me in the eye with that fake ass smile as I walk him back towards his classroom but now all of a sudden I make too much money and the cost of his education is based on monthly fees and priced at which side of the spectrum he sits on?!”
Manon couldn’t contain her anger brushing Sophia’s hand off her arm. She felt insulted and ultimately humiliated. Hot tears collecting in her eyes. Anger morphing into deep sadness. Manon was tired. Tired of trying so hard to do the right thing and getting nothing in return. Only being heard when she stooped to begging on her knees.
“Mama sads”, Matteo pouted, tugging at her pants. Small face contorted into a frown. Manon swallowed, taking a deep breath as she wiped her tears. She would not waste her tears over this place. Obviously they give a fuck about her or her son. So she didn’t give a fuck about them.
“No no..Mama isn’t sad. Mama is happy the devil finally presented itself. Come on, how about we go and get Jacob from school and have a Mama, Jacob and Matteo day”, Manon managed to smile even as her tears fell freely. She didn’t say anything else to Marissa, just turned and left the building holding Matteo close while struggling to say strong.
Only once Matteo was strapped in his seat and the door was shut Manon finally broke down. Sophia and Lara were there to catch her immediately but it didn’t erase everything that had happened. Especially the humiliation she felt.
“Oh Manon…we got you Manz”, Lara pulled back first to wipe Manon’s tears while Sophia continued to hug her.
“I try so hard..I just…what am I doing wrong”
“You aren’t doing anything wrong babes. You’re the best mother to those boys. Don’t doubt yourself for a second.”, Sophia rested her hands on Manon’s shoulders moving to cup her face. Strong hands holding her up because Manon was sure without them she probably wouldn't have had her sons now.
There was a time during the start of her pregnancy when the boy’s father; a man who shall not be named, opted for her to abort and forget about it. Manon thought about it. She was in college, a whole country away from her home. She almost considered it but now 7 years in the future she couldn’t imagine being without her sons.
“Just look at this as a blessing in disguise. We’ll figure this out. Manon, you have us. Daniela, Sophia, Me, Yoon and Megan. We are sisters for life. We got you”, Manon found herself smiling slightly at Lara’s words moving to gently wipe her tears. It was overwhelming. Moving at 100 she tended to forget just how much love and care she was surrounded by.
Guess college really is the foundation to meeting the best people in your life. “I love you guys so much..”
“We love you Manon…you are strong. Fuck them and keep doing what’s best for you boys”, Sophia chuckled making them all collectively laugh but it was mainly just to put a smile back on Manon’s face. Patting her face dry, Manon took a few breaths before nodding. Turning back to the car shortly to check on Matteo.
Surprisingly he was fine but Manon knew it wouldn’t be long until he started to get restless. “Well I’m going to go and get Jacob from school. We all need a lazy day”
“Stay safe girl. We love you”
“Call us if you need anything”
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“Hi, I’m Jacob’s mom. I know he got to school a little late but I was coming to just take him home”, Manon rested a hand on Matteo’s head while looking at the front desk lady.
“Name?”
“Meret Bannerman, Jacob Bannerman is my son”
“Jacob is currently at recess with Mr. Harris. You're more than welcome to go get him, just go down this hall and then the double doors on your left. It’ll lead straight to the playground”, Manon nodded in thanks, grabbing Matteo’s hand to pull him away from the front desk.
“Dylan! You’re about to sit and watch everyone play if you can’t play nice. Elise already told you to stop so leave her alone. We just talked about boundaries this morning”, Manon watched the boy in question tip toe around nervously. Hands raised to convey innocence but your gaze remained stern as a you beckoned him closer.
“Hey..you’re not in trouble ok. I’m not angry but if someone doesn’t want to play with you you accept that and respect their space. That’s the second time Elise had to tell you no. You got plenty of other friends out here ok to play with. Play with them or I’ll have to move you into the yellow and send a note to mom. Do you want me to send a note home”
Dylan shook his head, dragging his toes against the black top. You nodded tilting his head up just slightly so that eye contact could be made. “I don’t wanna send a bad note home either. There’s 15 minutes left of recess go have fun”
With a fist bump and a slight ruffle of the boy’s hair Manon watched as you sent him on his way. Clearing her throat she tapped your shoulder while picking Matteo up in her arms. “Excuse me, I’m Jacob’s mom. I was going to take him home”
“Dang it. You're stealing my little buddy away from me. Y/n Harris by the way, it’s nice to meet you…-“
“Meret Bannerman but you can call me Manon”
“Manon…that's a French name?”
“Yes..but I’m Swiss. Not French”, Manon bumped Matteo higher watching you nod while dropping her hand.
“From Switzerland to California..I couldn’t imagine that culture shock”, you hummed before turning back towards the playground calling Jacob’s name. You watched the boy run over bouncing a basketball up and down, easily stealing it from it.
“Hey!”
“What..remember what I told you. Eyes up at all times.”, you smiled ruffled his hair. Manon watched the interaction. Something different in her eyes as she watched how easily you moved with Jacob. It was hard to believe just a few hours ago he was begging to stay home.
“Come on little man. Eyes up, dominate hand as your guide. Hey, you got this. Get the ball back”, Jacob launched forward. Sloppy no technique so easily you punished him swapping hands so that he swatted at air.
“That’s not fair..”
“Try again. You give up too easily. What did I say?. Eyes up. Control your body. Think about what you wanna do before you do it. Don’t just jump at the ball”, Manon stared at Jacob. She knew that boy didn’t have any patience yet she watched as he took a deep breath. Eyes watching the ball as you bounced it up and down. Switching hands.
With a strong swipe he almost managed to get the ball but you bounced it between your legs. Jacob huffed. Manon figured this is where the whining would come but it didn’t. Jacob only gritted his teeth before finally managing to knock the ball cleanly from your hands. Of course you let him but you celebrated his achievement no less.
“See what you did there. You waited. You stayed patient. Stayed focused. So you gotta apply that same mentality in all of your life. Don’t let yourself get easily frustrated, just slow down and allow yourself to fail because you’ll eventually end up getting it ok”, Jacob nodded and you smiled, raising your hand high so he could jump and hit it.
“Good, now go get your stuff so your mom can take you home”
“Huh? Mommy!!”, Manon laughed as Jacob barreled into her.
“Ready to go home love”, Manon glanced down towards Jacob fingers threading through his curls watching as Jacob pulled back with a slight frown.
“Wait I don’t want to leave Mommy”, Jacob stepped back shaking his head. Manon furrowed her eyebrows shifting Matteo in her arms pulling his fingers from playing with her earrings. “I want to stay please Mommy. I wanna stay with Mr. Harris”
Manon glanced down at Jacob watching as he skipped over towards you grabbing your pants. Manon watched you glance down shortly, one hand resting on Jacob’s shoulder as you easily threw a soccer ball back into the field of boys playing.
“Mr. Harris! I wanna stay with you”, Jacob pressed his face against your leg while tightening his arms as if someone was gonna pry him off. Confused, you glanced down at him before glancing towards Manon.
“You gotta listen to Mom bud”, Jacob shook his head clutching tighter. The behavior didn’t surprise you but it did surprise Manon. Her kids weren't friendly. All they knew was her and the girls. To see Jacob respond like this towards you made a lot of thoughts form in her head.
“No! I wanna stay. I don’t wanna leave. Please Mr. Harris I wanna stay”, Jacob stared up at you still clinging to your leg in hopes that you’d keep him.
“Yea but Mom came all the way out here to see you champ. You’ll be back tomorrow ok.”, with a nudge Jacob pouted but released himself from your leg before shuffling towards Manon. She grabbed his hand heading towards the door but not without glancing towards you one more time.
“5 MINUTE WARNING”
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Becoming a teacher wasn’t your dream career path. Like all children you had large goals and aspirations. First you wanted to be a police officer. Your uncle was a field agent and growing up you only had him as your role model. Through everything every time he put his uniform on you knew he was going to make the world just a little safer.
Then you reached 5th grade and you didn’t want to be a police officer anymore. Too many talks of brutality dimmed the light on that section of your life. So instead of a police officer you wanted to be in the army. It was kinda the same thing. At least that's what you pieced together in your mind.
It also sounded better amongst your peers. You grew up in Crenshaw. Known as low class, crime stricken, low income high in poverty; saying you wanted to be a police officer always got looks. Labeled you as a mark. A young black man wanted to help the people being harm to his race. Definitely a mark.
Your uncle wasn’t like that. He was the kindest person you knew. Stopping to help the homeless when others would simply pass them by. You remember watching the same man go and buy beer with the money your uncle gave him.
“He just got beer with your money Ronnie”
“Yea he did and he’ll keep doing it. No matter if I gave him 10 or 50 dollars”
“So why you keep giving him handouts if he just gonna waste it”
“It seems pretty stupid doesn’t but what’s more stupid is pretending he isn’t there. Now I can’t stand the man up and take him to the nearest shelter but I can stop and show him that I see him. Pray that one day he sees himself.”, your uncle was super philosophical in ways your 11 year old brain couldn’t understand.
From military you flipped to basketball. Playing it every weekend with the neighborhood kids made you think you were a pro baller. Oftentimes you believed you were the next Kobe or Tim Duncan. Basketball was the main focus until you reached your sophomore year of highschool.
You still played ball but you started paying attention to your surroundings. You didn’t have classes with the kids you grew up with. Some of them didn’t even make it to high school. You still see them hanging on the street. Doing the same thing they did at 10 years old.
“Hey Uncle Ronnie, can I talk to you”, you stared at your uncle from the doorway of his study only stepping inside once he nudged his head sitting a bit taller. “I grew up in Crenshaw just like those other kids so why am I the only one taking AP classes..?”
“Cus those kids don’t want it as bad as you do”
“Want what?”
“A life. A future beyond this town. You have goals. Dreams. A need to better yourself. You want to live in those houses with a big yard and have a dog to run around.”
“I thought everyone wanted that”
“They do but not everyone has the motivation to work for it. A lot of your peers want what’s easy. It’s easy to get up and stand on the corner. Easy to be loud, shoot dice, throw rocks at cars. Do what’s expected of them. It’s not easy to get up, go to school, work hard, study for that test.”, you bit your lip listening to your uncle talk because he said it in such a way that was straight forward. Exactly to the point. No excuses, just raw facts.
“That’s how your daddy was and I love my brother but he was content doing everything easy. It’s hard going to work everyday but it’s easy selling drugs and making 200 dollars in 30 minutes. It’s also not just his fault. He didn’t have anyone telling him he could be something or that he had more to give.”, your Uncle Ronnie shifted sliding papers to the side while fixing the glasses that sat on his face. You sat up a bit more as well.
“But you didn’t turn out that way..and you and my dad have the same parents”
“Mhm you’re right but like I said before your daddy didn’t want to change. He was fine doing life easy. I wasn’t. I saw those white kids go on field trips, watched them be able to afford the snacks at lunch..”,
You and your uncle exchanged more words but ultimately you took that information to school the next day. You walked the same way as everyday watching the kids hang on the corner. The same corner your dad stood on. One most people thought you’d be on.
In your AP English class you tapped your foot blindly on the floor while picking up half of what the teacher was saying. You couldn’t focus on the lesson because you were too busy looking around the room. Only one other student had your same black skin. It was a class of 25 and only one other black person.
At that moment basketball felt like a hobby. You often thought about what you wanted to be when you grew up and ultimately you wanted to help people. You wanted to see more of your people in these classes. Future Class Presidents and Valedictorian. Aw
It started at home. Started young so when you graduate a year early you went straight to college. Something in you said don’t go to an over the stop college. You wanted to stay close to home so that you could stay close to the community. So that way on your way home you’d pass the local park and hand out juice and snacks to the little kids waiting.
They’d happily tell you how good they’ve done. Kids who used to fail their spelling test now coming back with fully filled out papers. It dawned on you that many didn’t have the same encouragement that you had. This changed that. Responsibilities became real and the need to be more grew.
Choosing 1st grade felt like the perfect age to install boundaries and structure into children. It was that first level to life and you wanted to be that person to introduce that choices now mattered a whole lot in the future. A few teachers questioned your methods. You weren't strict but you didn’t give chances.
“They are 6-7 year olds you have to be easy on them”
“Y/n they are babies”
“They don’t know any better”
That couldn’t be further from the truth. 6-7 wasn’t a baby nor a toddler. 6 to 7 years old, those kids were able to understand that their actions had consequences. They knew right from wrong and the only problem was treating them like they didn’t. Coddling them when they should be in a time out to think about their actions.
Not enough teachers wanted to impact these children’s lives. The pay wasn’t even good to halfass the job. However when your 2nd and 3rd graders kept coming back to tell of their achievements or when children willingly wanted you to chaperone their classes for field days it told you that you didn’t need to change a single thing.
Angry parents be damned. You were the one basically raising their children. A knock on your classroom door made you look up from the mountain of papers you had been grading. Placing the no name worksheets aside. Grades mattered. Those students would come in the next day names in the red and maybe that would teach them to write their names on their paper.
“Hey..Mrs.Bannerman right. I’m Y/n Harris, Jacob’s teacher and I’m glad you wanted to have this meeting”, You grabbed Manon’s hand in a firm shake before stepping aside to let her into the classroom. A space already set up for the two of you to talk.
You loved when parents got involved. Wanted to set up random parent teacher conferences. Manon gave a closed lipped smile while helping Matteo into the classroom.
“Hi, thank you for meeting with me. It’s Ms not Mrs though but Manon is just fine”
“Oh..I apologize. Have a seat Manon..”, You gestured for the chair testing out how her name sounded on your tongue. You cleared your throat. Remain professional. Manon smiled again, shy eyes glancing at the ground as she guided Matteo to sit beside her.
“It’s fine. I just wanted to check on my son’s progress. How he’s performing in class and academically”, Manon sat her bags aside trying to get Matteo situated while also giving you her full attention. You could tell she was slightly embarrassed.
There was just a dull light in her eye as she tried to control the boy next to her. You stood forgetting your student binder but also to grab a few more items. First a few coloring pages, some stress toys that had never been opened and finally your snack bin and a juice from the mini fridge you kept in your room.
“Fruit Punch or Kiwi”, you held the two flavors out for Matteo. Manon stared. Like a bear protecting her cub. For the past few days it’s been her and Matteo. The lack of school and change in routine left the boy attached to her. More than usual making her feel ultra protective.
Matteo stared before turning his body towards Manon. Whining. Easily you grabbed his arm straightening him out. Two options if he wanted it he’d have to pick. “Mom can’t pick for you. Pick one”, Manon was ready to step in. Ready to tell you to step back. To tell you to stay in your line but managed to stay quiet as Matteo slowly reached for the Fruit Punch capri sun in your left hand.
“Now would you like a snack? Uh nuh I’m asking you not mom.”, Matteo stared and ultimately nodded making you lower the snack bin to his height. He pulled out a pack of goldfish and some fruit snacks. You let them keep both before playing the few coloring pages down along with crayons.
“Autism?”
“Excuse me?”
“Is your son Autistic, sorry”, you cleared your throat. The delivery was kinda off you had to admit. Manon nodded and you could see her shoulders sink just a bit.
“Yes. His name is Matteo. He and Jacob are fraternal twins.”, Manon shifted closer resting her hand on Matteo’s head.
“I’ve heard Jacob mention it a few times. Is he currently in school?”, you weren’t trying to pry. Not really but you were curious. Jacob was your little buddy and maybe you knew just a little of his perspective.
“We’re in between schools right now. He was going to Golden Gate but it was not the right fit for us. So it’s just been me and him for the past few weeks. Ain’t that right Bubba.”, Manon glanced over but Matteo was paying no attention as the snacks and color pages held his attention.
You knew the reputation surrounding Golden Gate. Great school for special needs or high functioning children but not one you would recommend. Their curriculum works but it was heavily catered to a specific brand of people.
“Oh I know all about Golden Gate. Great school but they aren’t as transparent as they should be. Have you ever thought about enrolling him here?”
“Isn’t it too late?”
“I could pull some strings. Definitely don’t want to keep him out of his routine for long and he’d be fine in my class.”, Manon stared at you before staring at Matteo. She really didn’t have any other choices besides home schooling but she knew Matteo benefited from third party schooling. He needed the classroom setting and a desperate need for routine back into his schedule.
“I would really appreciate that. I am a first time mom and single mother so all of this is new to me”
“I understand I'm a single dad. Raising babies never gets easier. Each day is a lesson to be learned”, you unconsciously grabbed her hand from across the table. Squeezing slightly. “But Jacob talks high of you Manon…so I have no doubt that you are a good mother”
The room went silent for a few moments, both of you just staring at one another. Something about Manon other than her beauty intrigued you and something about you. Your patience. Your dedication intrigued her. You only spoke once Matteo let out a few babbles. Breaking the raising tension either of you knew had begun to settle.
“Anyways let’s talk about Jacob…”
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“Mr. Harris! My mommy’s coming on the field trip.”, you turned towards Jacob, the small boy running straight into your legs. It was too rainy to play outside so recess in the gym it was. Glancing down at him you smiled softly.
“Oh yea..the one to the science museum”
“Mhmm!! I asked her and she say yes! Are you gonna be there too”
“Of course I will. You think I would miss a trip to the science museum. No way”, Jacob let out a giggle as you ruffled his hair. Twisting so he could escape your grip but coming back seconds later to reattach himself to your leg.
“Do you like my mommy”, the question had you breaking your neck to look down at the boy. A laugh passed through your lips as you bent down to his height. His own squeaky giggles reached your eyes as you tickled his stomach.
“What?!”
“Do you like my mommy. You always talks to hers after schools. You want my mommy to be yours girlfriend”, you couldn’t help but laugh because of the audacity of this little boy and because truthfully you had nothing to say. Nothing to deny the statement. Since that first day you’d seen her you just knew something about this woman was different.
The way she held herself but also the way she catered to her kids. How often she made it her mission to show up. The right balance of patience yet discipline. You tried to meet women. Gone on many dates but they never stuck. You could not see yourself opening your home nor heart for anyone that wasn’t your daughter. Yet Manon had you completely infatuated.
“Mr. H, you're blushing!! You like my mommy!!”
“Man go play because your recess is up”, you managed to push him off your leg and back into the sea of kids not missing his giggles as he ran away. You couldn’t help but shake your head trying not to give him much of a reaction. It didn’t help that he was basically screaming it around the gym.
Moments like this made you question why you became a teacher. The field trip came quick. For the past three days it was all your students talked about but they were 1st graders and their work still got done so you didn’t say much. Only redirecting when needed.
“Mr. Harris! Dis my auntie. Her name is Daniela. Say hi”, Jacob used all his might to push you towards a woman you did not recognize but you extended your hand politely anyways.
“Hello..I’m Y/n Harris. Jacob and Matteo’s teacher. It’s nice to meet you Daniela”, you tried to make the interaction short and less awkward than it already was. Daniela was nice though. Understanding. Easy on the eyes. Used to Jacob’s tactics.
“I have six aunties and you have to meet dem all if your gonna date my mommy and you better be nice to them because I will beated yous up if you not”, you watched Jacob stand arms crossed, eyebrows furrowed trying to look intimidating as if he wasn’t a short twig.
He ran off towards a smaller group of children before you could correct him leaving you stuck in place with Daniela. Quickly you turned towards her, clapping your hands together trying to stop the blood flow to your cheeks. “I’m sorry-“
“It’s ok. Kids are unpredictable. Always gonna love them though”, you nodded licking your lips forcing your face to stay straight not knowing how to correctly leave this interaction. Leave it up to your kids to embarrass you. Correction just Jacob.
“Sorry I must get back to y'know herding the kids around”, Daniela gave a smile and you returned it depleted of your usual confidence as you quickly turned the other direction. A part of you wanted to find Jacob. Grab him by the legs and shake him around like a ragdoll.
Unfortunately you didn’t find Jacob the kid fair gone at some tsunami exhibit but you did find Manon and Matteo. There was no reason why you approached them besides the fact that Jacob wasn’t wrong in his teasing. You did like his mom. You liked Manon a lot. Calls about the boy's progress became talks about your respective days.
She liked hearing you rant about the day. Hearing about the class and what your students managed to get into while you enjoyed hearing about hers. Finding yourself smiling at how she got excited over simple chores. Loving her enthusiasm in even the smallest things. “Enjoying yourself”
Resting a hand on the small of Manon’s back she jumped back hand over her heart before relaxing realizing it was just you. A soft smile graced her features as Matteo played in a sand pit. However with each mountain of sand moved the geographical map changed along with it.
“Yes! We are having a good time. Aren’t we bubba”, Manon kissed Matteo’s cheek. The boy scrunched his face but didn’t pull away. You smiled warmly resting a hand on Matteo’s head.
“I’m glad. It’s a nice little break for everyone. So many years living in this state and I forget how much I never really explored it”, you hum leaving forward slightly subconsciously pulling Manon closer. The two of you looking like parents to a small boy rather than strangers to one another.
Manon didn’t say anything. If she didn’t speak verbally then her heart said everything. It had been so long since she had allowed herself to love. The last person she ever loved was her children's father. She thought they’d live together. Raise their boys but no. Manon was left alone to pick herself up and quickly find a way to stabilize herself for the arrival of her twins.
Her children were her priority so love had slipped her mind over the years especially once learning Matteo was autistic she really wasn’t looking for a man but instead put all her focus into making sure her boys were loved and had everything they needed. That’s not to say she didn’t want love, she just wasn’t actively looking. Yet every moment spent with you had her missing that feeling.
The way you stared at her like she was the only thing that mattered. The way you showed love to her boys. Balancing their time perfectly. Recess was usually Jacob’s time. You’d run circles with him. Play any and all his games he’d make up.
Lunch time was your one on one with Matteo. The cafeteria was too loud so you and him would eat together. He’d munch while sitting on your lap taking control of your phone while you would grade worksheets and work on your computer. Extra steps you didn’t have to take.
Yet you did it anyway. Without being told. Without wanting something in return but simply because that’s where your heart was. Testing boundaries Manon wrapped her arms around your bicep before interlacing your fingers.
You noticed. She felt a strong surge of butterflies rise in her stomach. She was 32 and feeling like she was a teenager talking to her first boyfriend but then you leaned over and kissed the top of her head while squeezing her hand. “You’re really beautiful today.”
You spoke softly holding Matteo in your freehand as the three of you moved through the large building. Never too far from the group but also in your own little bubble. Other teachers noticed but all took the collective decision to let the two of you be.
“Thank you..I guess you look ok”
“What!? Ok? Oh so your playing”
“I mean…you do look a little good”, Manon smirked teasingly, making you turn towards her with your own smirk making its way on your face. “Ok ok..you look handsome. I like this casual look on you but I prefer your suits and ties.”
Manon winked pulling Matteo from your arm. Oh this woman was going to be the death of you. You followed after her grabbing her waist teasingly lowering your mouth to her ear. “I bet you’d like to see what I look like when I take them off as well”
You moved aside smirking at Manon’s audible gasp. You had her and man did she have you.
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“You got your shoes on”, Jacob nodded, raising his feet for you to see. You nodded, tying the laces to Matteo’s shoes.
“Alright, go get your coat on. And tie your shoes before you trip. Jordyn are you ready”, you turned your attention from the boys to your daughter. Two years older at 10 but very well mannered you didn’t have to direct her much.
“I’m ready Daddy”, you nodded, zipping up Matteo’s coat. It wasn’t cold but the morning dew hadn’t left yet so you wanted them to bundle up just in case.
In the back room. Your room Manon slept. The two of you had been getting more serious. There was an undeniable pulse between you and you would be lying if you said you don’t want to explore it. Didn't want it to mean something. She was thirty-two and you were thirty-five y'all weren't gonna get younger and didn’t need to beat around the bush like children.
You kissed her head before grabbing your phone off the side table letting her sleep in more. You figured she needed the rest. You knew she needed the rest. She deserved peace and quiet for all that she’s done. 7 years nonstop on her own. You wanted to give her a break. You and the kids left the house quietly.
Loading up into your car and set off on your morning adventure. You decided to keep them for the morning. First it was breakfast. IHOP was the restaurant of choice. You didn’t realize how much you would enjoy yourself. How happy it makes you seeing your daughter taking so easy to the boys.
She was helpful towards Matteo, playful with Jacob. Sometimes you didn’t realize how much your daughter benefited from everything as well. The boys didn’t have a dad but they had you. A male figure in their lives to guide them. Jordyn didn’t have a mom. Jordyn was dropped on you and her mom left. For 10 years not a word. You had to teach yourself how to braid hair, to buy the right clothing and styles, often having to stop and ask because you had no idea what you were doing.
Jordyn loved Manon. Manon could do her hair. They could talk about boys and gossip in ways only women could. Manon would make her look pretty. They would play in make up together or dress up like princesses cause they could. Oftentimes Jordyn spent the nights begging if she could see Manon while repeatedly asking if you were gonna marry her.
Occasionally she’d steal your phone so that her and Manon could spend hours on FaceTime. You always watched from afar and each time it only solidified what you already knew. You did want to marry this woman. You wanted two households to become one. You loved Manon, you just had to say it.
Manon woke up a little after 12. She opened her eyes slowly stretching out to the other side of the bed only stopping when she was met with cold sheets. Manon sat up quickly, eyes searching as she slid out of bed.
“Y/n!”, no response. The house wasn’t big. Just enough room to fit you and your daughter. On top of that the walls were thin so it was easy to hear voices or if the tv was on. Yet Manon didn’t hear a thing. Her heart pounded in her chest as she scrambled for her phone. Where were her kids? Where were you?
Hearing the front door opening, Manon scrambled out of the back room. Phone hanging off the dresser by the charger forgotten in an instant her heart stopped once she saw her boys. You watched with mild confusion as she grabbed Jacob and then Matteo.
“Manon-“
“Stop! You stop”, you took a step back not used to this show of aggression or anger from Manon. All your interactions had been sweet. Soft moments filled with laughter, understanding, patience and this unfiltered love you’ve never felt before.
“Wait Manon just stop for a moment-“, you reached for her hand which she quickly snatched from your touch as she urged Jacob and Matteo to put their coats and shoes back on.
“Jordyn, you three go to my room just for a moment.”, you turned towards your daughter who easily grabbed Jacob and Matteo’s hand pulling them out of the living room and into your room. Knowingly Jordyn shut the door leaving you alone with Manon finally.
“Ok what is wrong-“
“You don’t do that! Ever. You don’t disappear with my kids and don’t tell me Y/n”
Manon slapped your hands off her shoulders, hands getting lost in her hair as she pulled slightly. Chest pumping rapidly with fear. Slowly you took a step forward reaching to cup her face. You could see the unleashed tears as she tried to calm her breathing.
“Ok first just breathe. Baby breathe. The boys are safe. Y'know I would never allow anything to happen to them”
“You can’t…you can’t take them without letting me know. I didn’t know where they were. You were gone. They could’ve gotten out the house..those are my babies nothing can happen to them”, Manon’s lip quivered relief flooding her senses because her boys were safe but it didn’t erase her initial fear. Any could have happened and Manon didn’t want to think about those what ifs.
“You’re right. I should have said something. I honestly thought we’d be out for just an hour or two but after breakfast the kids wanted to play..so we went to the park it got hot so we got froyo..you had been asleep they woke up early and I just wanted to give you some quiet so you could sleep. Manon, I would never bring harm to those boys.”, you used your thumbs to wipe her fallen tears. Manon leaning into the touch slightly.
“I woke up and I didn’t see them. I didn’t hear them. Those are my boys Y/n..”
“And I understand. I’m sorry. I should’ve told you. Wrote a note. Woke you up. That’s my fault.”, Manon pulled away, taking a deep breath while covering her face with her hands. Shoulders tense refusing to drop. You didn’t blame her. Didn’t rush her, just allowed her to calm down.
If you’d woken up and your daughter wasn’t there you’d react the same. “Can I touch you..hug you”
You took small steps. Manon didn’t verbally respond but didn’t decline either. Testing you wrapped your arms around her neck from behind. She leaned into your touch before turning to rest her head against your chest. Kissing the top of her head you pulled back grabbing her face once more.
“Manon, I love you. I want to love you. I know you’ve been hurt before but I want to give you that love you deserve. You deserve to be held, to be worshipped, to be loved. Allow me to treat you how you deserve to be treated. I want to be the role model those boys need. I want Jordyn to have a mother. I don’t need years to decide what I want. I’m a grown man and I want you. All of you. Unfiltered and raw. Be my woman…”
Manon stared up at you. Fresh tears collected in her eyes. It’s been a long time since she opened her heart. Since she allowed herself to be vulnerable. To be held. To not have to be the one to carry all the strength. She wanted someone she could feel pretty with. Who she could be feminine. Submissive and soft for.
“I haven’t loved in so long…-“
“Then let’s learn how to love together. Let me show you”, you held her chin in between your fingers staring down at her. Manon stared back. Searching but she didn’t find anything but warmth. She wanted you so badly. So badly it scared her.
“I..I love you too. Fuck”
You smirked closing distance. “Yea..”
“Yesss..~”
“Can I kiss you?”
“Please”
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