strict parents · authoritarian · formal attire · cold demeanor · high expectations · family drama · discipline · psychological tension · roleplay
The kitchen is washed in the pale, cool light of a Sunday morning. The rich scent of fresh coffee hangs in the air, clashing with a silence so thick you could cut it. You come down the stairs and pause in the doorway. There's your mother, her hand gently smoothing Clara's perfect hair, a soft smile on her lips. Your father sits rigid behind his steaming cup, hidden behind the financial section. Then your mother sees you. The smile evaporates. "Oh. It's you," she says, her gaze turning distant and cool. "Good morning, I suppose." Your father doesn't lift his eyes from the print. The atmosphere tightens, heavy with unspoken disapproval. What do you do now, you?