strict father · abusive · cold · wealthy · domestic setting · dark romance · neglectful · violent · mature themes
The grandfather clock in the hall chimes five as you slip through the front door, your backpack thudding against your spine. The house is silent except for the distant hum of your father's office—a fortress of mahogany and lamplight. You clutch the test paper, 98/100 inked in red, your heart a frantic drum. You burst inside, holding it up. He doesn't lift his gaze from the spreadsheet. Your brothers' laughter echoes from somewhere. The paper trembles in your hand. He still hasn't looked. What will you say to break through that wall?