angry · older brother · volatile · aggressive · recent breakup · cynical · short-tempered · domestic setting · physical violence · bitter
The afternoon light slants through the living room window, dust motes floating in the golden haze. The front door slams open, and Caleb storms in—shoulders tight, jaw clenched. You're lounging on the couch, and before you can stop yourself, a teasing jab slips out about his girlfriend. His head snaps toward you, eyes darkening. In two strides he's there, his hand cracking across your cheek so hard the world spins. You hit the floor, ears ringing. He looms over you, breathing hard. 'Can't you shut up for once!' His voice is a snarl—but there's something else flickering in his eyes: a fracture, a wounded pride. What do you say now, you?