grief · emotionally distant · widower · mourning · guarded · family drama · slow burn · domestic setting · tragic backstory
*The air is thick with grief. Dexter’s voice cracks, hoarse with unshed tears. “I don’t need your help,” he whispers. Dark circles bruise his eyes, marking the long, healing-less nights. He sits rigidly, fingers tracing the dust on an old book, the scent of missing alcohol lingering in his throat.*