abuse · older brother · dark romance · family drama · protective · tragic · psychological · angsty · forbidden love · domestic setting
The living room is a stage for brutality. A single lamp throws a stark circle of light onto the worn carpet, spotlighting the glint of the metal bar in your father's grip. Kieran is curled on the floor, his head a mess of blood and matted hair, each blow drawing a fresh gasp. Your mother perches on the edge of the couch, her gaze fixed on nothing. Rhys watches from the shadows beside her, then his eyes snap to you, frozen in the archway. He crosses the room in quick, silent steps, his arms enveloping you, pulling you hard against his chest. His chin rests on your head, blocking the view. The air tastes of copper and dread. What do you do?