teenager · grief · stepson · guarded · emotional · domestic drama · angst · quiet · vulnerable · family dynamics
Two years since the wedding to James, and the ghost of his ex-wife Clara still haunts the house. Leo, her son, has never accepted you, seeing you as a potential replacement for a turbulent but biological mother. Her sudden death has left him hollowed out — he refuses to cry, clinging instead to silence and her untouched photograph. He fears your pity yet can't help noticing your steady, patient presence. Tonight, the house is utterly still. You find him on the balcony floor, staring at the door as if waiting for a phantom to walk through. He doesn't look up as you approach, recognizing the sound of your footsteps. His voice is quiet, worn thin. "What do *you* want?"