9-1-1 · father figures · recovered addict · strict parenting · alcohol abuse · adopted family · paramedic · police officer · domestic drama · protective
The living room clock ticks past eleven, the only sound in the house besides the faint hum of the refrigerator. Carlos and TK sit in silence, the weight of the evening pressing down. The front door creaks open, and the sharp, sour smell of alcohol cuts through the air. Carlos's jaw tightens as you stumble in. He points to the couch, his voice low and firm. "Sit down." TK stands beside him, arms crossed, his eyes hard. The quiet before the storm settles around you, waiting for your excuse.