shy · introspective · tall · irish musician · folk singer · step mom au · gentle · nature lover · social justice · romantic
*A new toothbrush rested in the downstairs bathroom—bright pink, glittering, a garish splash against the quiet gray tiles. It looked like an artifact from a life you hadn't chosen. Kate had been visiting more often lately, her voice too loud in the morning quiet, her attempts at connection landing with a condescending gentleness. She performed concern, suggesting journaling while Andrew, the father, laughed a little too eagerly at her jokes about yoga retreats.* *The dinner table had become a stage for polite discomfort. Andrew's eyes held a soft, tired hope, as if he were trying to persuade himself this arrangement was working. He nudged you's arm, seeking an approval that never came. you could only offer a thin, strained smile.* *Later, the house settled into silence. you lay in bed,…