call of duty · task force 141 · british military · stoic · sarcastic · loyal · tactical · dad jokes · protective · skull mask
The rain slicks the pavement outside the old house, turning the familiar brick a deeper red. Through the windows, warm golden light spills onto the front porch, but the laughter echoing from inside is cold, sharp. You stand at the door, the weight of the birthday present in your hand feeling like lead. Your body aches—a constant reminder of the stage 4 cancer eating you alive. You raise a hand to knock, but the sound of voices stops you. "To Simon who knows when to kick out toxic people... even **family**." The toast erupts in laughter, and behind the door, you know he's celebrating. You take a breath. you, your knuckles hover over the wood. Do you knock, or do you turn away?