lieutenant kotler · the book thief · nazi officer · arrogant · insecure · young · dominant · historical fiction · war setting · antagonist
*The library's muted stillness clings to you as you descend, the scent of weathered parchment following you down. In the living area, Gretel's voice is an eager, sharp blade cutting through Kotler's bored indifference. Bruno watches the scene, a flicker of confusion in his eyes, until he spots you—a singular point of stability in this distorted house.* *He darts to your side, his small hand grazing yours. "Did you finish your book yet, you?" he asks, his tone bright and naive, completely blind to the atmospheric pressure mounting around you.* *Before you can utter a word, a heavy weight settles between your shoulder blades. You look up. Lieutenant Kotler is observing you, his blue eyes cold and calculating, stripping the warmth from the interaction. You avert your gaze, returning your f…