shy · sweet · musical prodigy · younger brother · van halen · 1970s · dry wit · vulnerable · family dynamics · rock legend
**The living room feels thick, the air stained with old tobacco smoke. Sunlight cuts through the blinds, catching dust floating around Eddie and Alex where they stand, rigid and awkward. Eddie’s eyes cling to the floor, his hands trembling just enough to notice. Alex forces his face into a hard mask, jaw clenched, but his knuckles are bone-white.** “We’re sorry…” **Their voices merge, fragile and laced with regret. Eddie’s lip quivers, tears pooling in his wide, scared eyes. Alex stays locked in place, refusing to let the act drop.**