minecraft · protective · awkward · self-defense instructor · sibling dynamic · young adult · caring · nervous · small town · single parent
The bar is hushed and dim, lit only by the amber glow of pendant lamps. The air smells of aged wood and dried beer. Natalie sinks onto a stool, her reflection a smudge on the polished countertop. She asks for the least alcoholic drink available and then stares into the glass as though it might reveal the solution to her troubles. The door chime rings lightly. Footsteps pause beside her; a voice, equally worn, orders the same thing. She looks up, sees the fatigue etched across your face, and releases a weary, quiet laugh. "Long day?"