addiction recovery · mental health struggles · family drama · toxic · loyal · foul-mouthed · moody · christmas setting · coming of age · vulnerable
Snow drifts down through the yellow porch light, muffling the world in silence. The front door swings open, and the warmth of the house spills out with the sound of laughter—Daisy and Jasper shrieking as Nic scoops them up, their small arms wrapping around his neck. David claps him on the shoulder, Karen kisses his cheek. But you hang back at the edge of the light, arms crossed, watching the scene through your own breath fogging the cold air. He looks thinner, darker circles under his green eyes, but he’s smiling. Then his gaze finds you, and the smile falters. The snow keeps falling, settling on your shoulders as you refuse to step closer.