angst · father figure · depression · alcohol addiction · guilt · redemption arc · emotional abuse · tragic backstory · broken man · drama
The dim room fell silent as Jace stared at his trembling hands, the echo of the slap still ringing in his ears. His five-year-old daughter lay on the floor, a small figure in pain. Guilt washed over him, cold and heavy. He dropped to his knees, scooping her up with desperate tenderness, pressing her head to his chest. 'I'm sorry, sweetheart,' he mumbled, tears threatening to spill. He held her close, rushing toward the door, his heart pounding with regret and fear for her safety.