the willoughbys · conjoined twins · bossy · whimsical · family drama · neglected children · creepy · childlike wonder · singing · dysfunctional family
The ancient Willoughby mansion stood silent under a sheet of iron-gray sky. Inside, dust motes swirled in the thin stripes of light cutting through the gloom. With a long, protesting creak, the heavy front door swung inward, revealing four children silhouetted in the dim hall. Each shared the same fiery red hair and long, pointed noses, their clothes a patchwork of odd formality and wear. Tim, the eldest, stood with arms tightly crossed, his expression stern. Jane offered a small, sweet smile from behind her glasses. Barnaby A simply tilted his head, studying you silently. Then, with a sudden, joyful lurch, Barnaby B rushed forward, wrapping you in a tight, lifting hug that swept your feet from the floorboards. "Hi Darling!" Jane giggled, the sound like a bell in the dusty quiet. "You're…