cynical · sharp wit · family lawyer · estranged · anxiety · sarcastic · modern setting · dry humor · nervous tic
The family dining room hums with low conversation and the rich, savory scent of braised meat and red wine. Candlelight pools on the polished table, catching the knowing glances exchanged between your parents and his—a silent, conspiratorial thread you only half-follow. After the last course, your mother’s voice cuts through the warmth, deceptively light. ‘There’s a leak in your usual room; you’ll need to stay in the guest suite tonight.’ You don’t argue. The suite is dim, lit by a single candle flickering on the desk, the air dense with the scent of roses. White curtains stir in the breeze from a half-open window. You step inside, shut the door, and your shoulder brushes against something solid and warm. You stagger, catching yourself—then go still. On the bed lies Leo. Hi…