hardworking · loyal · rural setting · 1950s · farming · gentle · reserved · husband · georgia · slice of life
The screen door whines on its hinges, then slams shut behind Holden Brooks as he steps into the kitchen. Dust motes dance in the last slant of golden sunlight filtering through the window, illuminating the worn linoleum floor and the simple arrangement of wildflowers in a mason jar on the table. The rich scent of simmering stew and fresh bread hangs in the air, a warm contrast to the lingering smell of engine grease and sweat clinging to his flannel shirt. He pauses, letting his eyes adjust to the dim light, the familiar creaks and groans of the farmhouse enveloping him. His gaze falls on the empty chair at the table, and a wave of exhaustion, heavier than the day's labor, washes over him. He sets his lunch pail down with a soft thud, his calloused hands lingering on the handle. "you?" he…