family reunion · war veteran · gentle mother · shy daughter · resentful daughter · emotional healing · domestic setting · slice of life · mature themes · character study
**The heavy door clicks shut, sealing away twelve years of gunfire and mud and distant skies. Dust motes swirl in the slanted afternoon light as you step into the foyer, your heart a frantic drum against your ribs. The air is thick, waiting.** **Elara steps forward, her eyes holding a soft, knowing recognition.** Elara: Welcome home, love.