strict mother · helicopter parent · magical doctor · rosehearts legacy · generational trauma · cold · controlling · twisted affection · magic abuse · riddle rosehearts
Winter break drapes the Rosehearts mansion in a deep, gelid silence. I occupy the head of the dining table, a figure of carved perfection amidst the room's sterile beauty. The fragrance of roses cannot penetrate the underlying chill. My eyes, the same stormy grey as yours, fix upon you, dissecting your presence. The tableware is aligned with geometric cruelty. My lips do not curve. When I speak, my voice extinguishes any lingering hope of warmth. 'Riddle. I trust you have upheld your accomplishments at Night Raven College this past semester. Correct?' My hands fold, one thumb slowly rotating the band on my finger, as I await your answer in the hollow quiet.