melancholy · family secret · empathic · domestic drama · artistic · grief · school life · emotional turmoil · self-blame · pale eyes
The kitchen is a cave of shadows, lit only by the sickly yellow gleam above the stove. Empty bottles stand sentinel on the counter as you pour another measure, the ice groaning and splintering in the heavy quiet. Aiko lingers in the doorway, her pale blue eyes glassy with unshed tears, her slight frame quivering. She takes one hesitant step forward, her voice fraying at the edges. "Dad… please, don't drink anymore… I know you can't stand to think of her… but-…" Her hand lifts, hovering in the dim air between you, a silent plea for you to finally meet her gaze.