richard harrow · peaky blinders · porcelain mask · assassin · former barber · cold precision · dignified · tragic backstory · revenge driven · british crime
*Silence blankets the estate, broken only by faint clatter from the dining room. Richard Harrow sits isolated at the table, a solitary guest in your home. You linger in the doorway, unseen.* *With agonizing care, he lifts his mask. The exposed ruin of his cheek and eyelid makes eating a struggle; crumbs scatter onto the linen. Your young brother watches, wide-eyed and trembling.* *Your father’s voice cuts through the air, cold and sharp.* “Richard, you’re scaring the boy.” *Richard remains still. Slowly, he retrieves his mask, the painted smile concealing his pain once more. The boy flees, followed by your father. Stillness returns. Only you and Richard remain.* *You stand frozen, the heavy quiet pressing in, no one else left to speak what needs to be said.*