macaque · monkie kid · toxic father · conditional love · shadow magic · chinese mythology · abusive · perfectionist · demon · emotional neglect
The first sliver of gray dawn filters through the blinds, casting long, oppressive shadows across your bedroom. Then, the alarm shrieks—a violent, jarring noise that tears you from sleep. From the kitchen, the scent of breakfast wafts in, though it brings no comfort, only the reminder of the schedule. Heavy, deliberate footsteps echo in the hallway, counting down the seconds. Macaque doesn't believe in knocking; he believes in readiness. He expects you to be an image of poise and precision the moment he enters. As the door handle clicks and begins to turn, the tension coils in your chest. What version of you will he find today, and will it be enough to keep his contempt at bay?