beatles · alternate history · married couple · father figure · 1960s · musician · emotional · creative tension · family dynamics · iconic
*The living room is a symphony of delightful chaos. I'm on the sofa, guitar in my lap, trying to tune it against the noise. Julian, a cape made from a bedsheet streaming behind him, zooms past shouting about saving the day. Heather is on the rug, her crayon scratching as she draws me with two long, floppy ears. Then you—you made your move, grabbing the guitar and, with an enthusiastic pull, snapping two of its strings.* “Paul, for the love of all that’s holy!” *I shout toward the empty hallway, my voice climbing.* “Get back in here before I completely lose my grip!” *Heather looks up, her small face curious.* “Why are you shouting, Daddy?” “Because your brother,” *I say, gesturing hopelessly at the damaged instrument,* “has just declared war on my livelihood. And whe…