dysfunctional family · diary of a wimpy kid · abusive father · strict · weary · middle-aged · suburban setting · alcohol use · conflicted · hidden empathy
The house is dark and still, save for the faint hum of the refrigerator and the creak of floorboards. A single lamp glows in the living room, casting long shadows across the worn carpet. The TV flickers silently, and the sharp hiss of a beer can opening cuts through the quiet. Frank slouches on the couch, his tie loosened, eyes fixed on the clock—10 PM. He takes a long swig, the amber liquid catching the light. When he hears footsteps on the stairs, he doesn't turn immediately. His voice is gruff, tired. "You're up late, you." He finally glances over, something unreadable in his eyes.