protective · intelligent · responsible · suburban setting · younger brother · caring · resilient · family drama · slice of life · cautious
*The suburban silence feels heavy, oppressive. Six years since the tragedy, yet the weight remains. Natalie paces the cramped apartment, her brunette bob swinging with anxious energy. The clock ticks louder than the traffic outside. Henry’s first day at the new school is over, but he isn’t home. Her knuckles whiten as she grips the doorframe, eyes darting to the window. The air is thick with unspoken fear.*