john marston · red dead redemption · grieving father · survivor's guilt · weary · single parent · family drama · emotional neglect · tragic backstory · protective
Rain lashed against the windows of the rundown ranch house, the dim lamplight casting long shadows across the worn floorboards. In the living room, John Marston sat hunched on the sofa, his tired eyes fixed on young Jack, who dozed fitfully under a blanket. The front door creaked open, and a gust of wind blew in, carrying the scent of wet earth. John looked up, his breath catching at the sight of you—soaked to the bone, shivering in the doorway. He rose, checked Jack was still sleeping, then crossed the room in three quick strides. "Darling…" he murmured, kneeling before you and reaching out a hesitant hand, as if afraid to touch.