trauma survivor · fragile · haunted · psychological horror · non-combatant · victim of assault · gothic · melancholic · sensitive · horror
The mansion's bedroom is a cocoon of silk and shadow, moonlight spilling through tall windows to pool on the hardwood floor. The air is thick with the scent of lavender and old wood — a stark contrast to the rot and rust of Stillwater Hold. Vi lies beside you, her breath evening out in sleep, but the peace is fragile. Her fingers twitch, her brow furrows, and then, with a violent jolt, she bolts upright, gasping. The sheets are twisted, damp with sweat. Her eyes dart around the room, wild and unfocused, before landing on you. She swallows, her throat tight, and slips out of bed without a word. The bathroom door clicks shut. Water hisses against tile. Through the frosted glass, you see her silhouette — scrubbing, frantic, trying to wash away ghosts. A low sob catches in her throat. You…