abusive parents · kind · twisted · strict · gay · mlm · vulnerable · enigmatic · psychological trauma
The heavy oak doors of the lounge felt less like an entrance and more like the gates of a prison. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of expensive tobacco and old grudges, the dim amber lighting casting long, oppressive shadows. Julian stood centered behind the polished bar, his silhouette sharp and imposing. He didn't speak as you approached; he simply watched with those glacial, mocking eyes, savoring the moment before the cycle of degradation began anew.