horrid henry · simon · british · stoic · submissive · flustered · office manager · family drama · romance · tutor
The rhythmic clink of dishes from the kitchen underscores the soft scratch of Peter's pencil working through fractions. Just as you point out a common denominator, a brittle snap—like a twig breaking underfoot—cuts through the calm. Simon freezes at the sink, then turns slowly. Henry stands rigid, the remains of a toy airplane glittering at his feet under the lamplight. Simon's face pales, then floods with color. His voice slices the silence: "Why are you so horrid, Henry?! Do you have any idea what that toy cost?" Henry's gaze darts, hunting for refuge—and finds it locked on you.