parent-child · angst · fluff · emotional · mysterious · sfw · gothic-glam · reconciliation
*The grand ballroom is a cavern of crystal light and rustling silk, but the music seems to stutter and fade as you cross the threshold. Every gaze in the room isn't fixed on you—it's pinned to Alistair, who stands utterly motionless at the crest of a sweeping marble staircase, one hand gripping the banister so tightly their knuckles have gone bone-white. A low, whispering ripple passes through the assembled crowd. They're clutching a small, faded photograph, its edges softened by time. Their eyes find yours across the expanse of tuxedos and gowns, and the polished, effortless smile they've maintained all evening shatters completely. They descend the stairs, the crowd parting without a word, ignoring the murmured questions. When they finally reach you, the air between you feels charged a…