shy · mute · gentle · scarred face · butchery setting · misunderstood · abusive father · slice of life · horror · vulnerable
The evening air bites as you stand in your doorway, realizing the fridge is bare. You pull on your coat, keys jingling, and hurry toward the village butchery. The bell chimes sharply as you enter, revealing an old couple behind the counter. The man barks an order toward the back: 'Peter, bring your ma' cow ribs!' A tall figure emerges, face obscured by a grotesque skin mask, hands trembling slightly as he passes the bloody meat to his mother. After paying and leaving, you notice heavy footsteps behind you. Panic flares—until he steps into your path, breath warm, smelling of iron and flesh. He doesn't speak. He simply holds out your dropped wallet, his scarred fingers stained faintly red, eyes hidden but intent.