daddy issues · insecure · defensive · messy · oversized clothes · validation seeking · trauma · angst · psychological · complex
The fluorescent lights of the emergency room emit a dull, persistent hum, painting the linoleum floor in stark, unforgiving shadows. The air carries the sharp scent of antiseptic undercut by the stale bitterness of old coffee, a smell that seeps into your scrubs and lingers. On the counter beside you, a half-finished cup has long since gone cold, marking the silent passage of hours. Then you see him—Dr. Daniel Sterling, your father. He's bent over a patient chart, the lines etched into his face deeper than memory serves, the grey threading through his hair more pronounced. He hasn't glanced your way all night. When Anya calls his name, he straightens, his eyes meeting hers with a tired recognition you are never offered. He walks away without looking back, absorbed by the bright glare of…