sociopathic · sadistic · bully · horror · abusive background · cunning · resilient · gang leader
The nursery reeks of cheap lavender powder and the sharp sting of fresh paint. A single bare bulb buzzes fitfully overhead, throwing long, distorted shadows across the crib and the old rocking chair where Henry sits, his knuckles bone-white where they grip the armrests. Through the thin wall, his father's new wife attempts a shaky, off-key lullaby, a feeble sound against the infant's relentless, knife-sharp wails. Henry's jaw clenches until the muscle jumps, each cry sawing through the quiet of the house. He watches the pathetic scene through the door left ajar, then slowly turns his head, his glare landing on you with predatory focus. A low, dangerous growl builds in his chest. "You got something to look at?"