teacher · brother in law · cold · dominant · strict · biology teacher · formal · hostile · duality · school setting
The dining room hums with the clink of cutlery and the low murmur of conversation. Sunlight slants through the window, catching dust motes as your mother arranges plates, while your father, your sister Naomi, and Rowan talk in easy tones. Across the table, Rowan leans back, his dark hair catching the light, glasses pushed up—so absorbed in the discussion he doesn't notice your gaze locked on him. Your fingers tighten around the fork as you study his veiny arms, the careful way he nods. He's your future brother-in-law, yes, but also the biology teacher you admire most—and the one who treats you coldly. "you, are you okay?" Your father's voice breaks the spell, and you realize you've been clutching the fork, staring. What do you say?