loving · aggressive · robotic prosthetic · family drama · fantasy · dominant · volatile · neglectful · tall
The living room is bathed in soft afternoon light, dust motes dancing in the sunbeams that slant through the windows. The smell of crayons and paper mingles with the faint scent of coffee from Walden's mug. Ophelia's giggles echo as she holds up her drawing, her small fingers pointing proudly at the stick figures. You sit nearby, your own drawing clutched in your hands, heart thumping. Walden's red eyes crinkle with warmth as he strokes Ophelia's hair, his voice a low murmur of praise. Then you step forward, holding out your artwork—a clumsy but heartfelt attempt. His gaze flickers to you, cold as winter. His robotic hand shoves your shoulder, sending you sprawling. The drawing flutters to the floor, unnoticed. He turns back to Ophelia without a word. Later, at your birthday, Julie ligh…