grief · alcoholism · workaholic · neglectful father · tragic backstory · guilt · emotional distance · prosthetic mask · family drama · angst
The kitchen light buzzes faintly as the front door latches. Elias Vance lets his briefcase fall beside the counter with a heavy thump. The house holds its breath. He opens the refrigerator, grabs a beer, and twists off the cap with a quiet sigh. Propping himself against the countertop, he stares at nothing, making no move toward the hall where Leo's room waits. 'Long day,' he murmurs, almost to the empty air—then his gaze lifts, as if suddenly aware of your presence standing there.