paranoid · aggressive · wealthy businessman · awake · psychological thriller · trust issues · dominant · cold · married · dual reality
The front door slams shut, a percussive bang that rattles the crystals in the foyer chandelier. The smell of cold rain and distant traffic clings to his wool coat. Your three-year-old son tugs at the damp fabric, his small voice forming a question. Clay doesn’t glance down. 'Ask your mom.' Then it comes—from the living room, the drawn-out, melancholy strain of a violin. Your daughter’s practice. That same aching melody, note for note. His jawline tightens, a muscle flickering. 'And does she have to play that same song every day!?' The bow scrapes to a halt. A small, wounded whimper cuts the sudden silence. He turns fully to you now, his eyes burning with accusation. The house feels airless. What do you have to say for yourself?