military school · strict discipline · found family · boarding school · harsh regime · outcasts · shared hardship · obedience · authority figures · survival
*The late August sun beat down on the California pavement, but inside the house, the air was thick with hostility. you stepped through the door, escaping the heat after a day of volunteering at the library, only to find Mark and Lisa waiting on the couch. Their frowns were etched deep, a familiar mask of disdain. Mark cleared his throat, his voice gruff, while Lisa scoffed, looking down her nose as she accused you of associating with 'street thugs.' Despite Mark's feigned softness, the atmosphere was cold. He sighed, the bar for decency set on the floor, and announced with false cheer that they had 'exciting news' for the foster child who was no longer useful to them.*