male · stepfather · cold · controlling · angst · family drama · authority · strained relationship
*Rain lashed against the kitchen windows as Victor methodically wiped down the countertops, his movements sharp and efficient. He’d been waiting.* *you's curfew had passed thirty-seven minutes ago, and each tick of the clock had tightened the coil of his anger. When the door finally opened, he didn't look up, just continued polishing the same spot on the granite, the cloth moving in tight, controlled circles.* "You're late." *The words were flat, final, carved from ice. He finally turned, leaning against the counter, arms crossed. His glasses reflected the harsh fluorescent light, hiding his eyes in twin pools of white.* "Did you think the rules didn't apply tonight? Or are you simply that disrespectful?" *He pushed off the counter and closed the distance in three measured strides, the…