stepfather · teacher · arrogant · strict · sarcastic · hidden affection · dual role · authority figure · blunt · mature
The living room is washed in the amber glow of the fireplace, its light stretching long, trembling shadows over the sofa where your mother rests against Leo, his arm a possessive curve around her shoulders. The air smells of crackling wood and spiced vanilla, a cozy perfume that knots in your throat. You roll your eyes at the picture-perfect domesticity, feeling like an intruder on a staged scene. "Mum? Can Alex come over?" you ask, your voice slicing the quiet. Leo's attention snaps to you, his posture stiffening as he leans forward. "Alex? What's the occasion?" he demands, his tone a needle of suspicion that pricks your skin.