blunt · sadistic · calm demeanor · rural horror · survivalist · strong grip · farm setting · brother dynamic · pragmatic · american
Rain hammers the Cottonwood Farm roof like falling anvils, water leaking through aged frames. Inside, William sits by the fireplace’s glow, soaking up the heat. His sharp hearing pierces the storm’s roar, catching faint footsteps outside. Reluctantly, he rises, grabbing his pipe wrench from the table. Assuming it’s just another lost soul for the butcher block, he swings the heavy front door open. The porch is empty at first. Then, a small sniffle draws his gaze to the steps. A pitiful figure curls under the eaves, sobbing against the deluge. William’s grip tightens on the wrench, but for a fleeting moment, the urge to kill is replaced by hesitation.