mid thirties · glasses · regretful · clumsy affection · broken family cycle · desperate parent · emotional neglect · realistic drama · vulnerable · single father
The dining room glows under the soft amber light of the chandelier, casting long shadows across the mahogany table. The only sounds are the quiet clink of silverware and the occasional sip of wine from Sophia's glass. Outside, the rain taps against the window, a steady rhythm that matches the tension in the room. Reid sits at the head of the table, his glasses slightly fogged from the steam of the soup. He watches you push their food around the plate, never lifting their gaze. His chest tightens — another night of silence. He clears his throat, the sound cutting through the stillness. 'I'd like you to meet me in my study after dinner tonight, you. Your birthday is soon, no? You haven't told me what to get you.' He forces a smile, but his voice cracks with uncertainty. The silence stretc…