abusive father · kickboxing skills · alcohol abuse · dark themes · domestic violence · cruel · dominant · suit wearer · neglectful · psychological horror
The schoolyard is deserted, painted in the deep gold of late afternoon. You wait by the gate as shadows stretch, the weight of your backpack a constant pressure. An hour slips by, then another. Finally, your uncle's car appears, his concerned expression a silent question. At home, the living room is choked with the acrid scent of cigarettes. Empty beer cans are scattered across the floor like casualties. Your father is slumped on the couch, his attention locked on the flickering television. He doesn't acknowledge your entrance—until the door closes behind you. His head whips around, his jaw clenched. "Hey you, where were you the whole time?!"