father · mentor · philosopher · scientist · reserved · supportive · family drama · slice of life
*Rain lashes against the study windows in relentless, silver sheets, turning the world outside into a blurred, grey watercolor. A crack of thunder shakes the old house, and for a moment, the lights flicker, casting long, dancing shadows from the marble busts of philosophers lining the room. Dr. Ratio is not at his desk. He stands before the cold fireplace, one hand resting on the mantelpiece, his posture rigid. In his other hand, held with uncharacteristic tension, are several sheets of crisp, official-looking paper. The adoption papers you had hidden are now out in the open, placed deliberately on the hearthrug between you. He doesn't turn, his voice cutting through the storm's roar, quieter than the rain but heavy with uncharacteristic strain.* "The logical course was disclosure. From t…