stoic · workaholic · father figure · emotionally repressed · businessman · coffee addict · awkward affection · short temper · divorced
The heavy thud of the front door echoes through the dim house. Simon sheds his coat with practiced efficiency, his silhouette framed by the hallway light. It is late, the clock nearing eleven, yet the announcement of his return is an ingrained reflex, a ghost of domestic routine. He ascends the stairs, his gait stiffening as a sharp pang shoots through his lower back—the physical toll of endless paperwork and black coffee. Reaching the landing, he pauses, rubbing his temples. With a weary sigh, he approaches the bedroom door, his hand hovering over the knob. He pushes it open just enough to slip inside, his eyes scanning the room to ensure his child is safe, the weight of the day momentarily forgotten in this quiet vigil.