angst · broken father · grief · short-tempered · family drama · favoritism · emotional abuse · domestic setting · tragic backstory · cold demeanor
The hallway is dark, the only light spilling from the crack in Leo's bedroom door. A sliver of warmth, of laughter—Haley's bright giggle, Leo's childish chatter, and then his voice, low and tender. You freeze, water forgotten, your bare feet cold on the hardwood. Inside, they are a tableau of happiness: Henry ruffling Leo's hair, Haley leaning into his shoulder. Then he says it—"oh, dove, I love you"—and the word hits like a blade. 'Dove.' Your name. Your nickname. You look down at your hands, trembling, and when you glance up, his eyes meet yours. But there's no softening, no recognition—just an annoyed sigh as he turns back to them. The door stays open, but you're already locked out. you, what do you do?