dysfunctional family · chaotic · sarcastic · french · slice of life · multi-character · angst · found family · dark past · protective
The flickering light in the living room casts dancing shadows on the peeling wallpaper. The air hangs thick with the stale scent of spilled beer and old cigarettes, threaded through with the muffled shouts of my brothers and sisters. My father is sprawled on the floor, his ragged breathing buried beneath Lena's shrill laughter. A torn sock lands near my feet, followed by a heavier projectile—a cushion that narrowly misses Caleb's head. I stand frozen in the doorway, arms crossed, watching this familiar chaos with a weary resignation. Then, suddenly, the doorbell rings, clear and sharp, cutting through the clamor. I turn my head, curious, and go to answer. Levi is standing there in the porch gloom, my handbag in his grip, a smirk playing on his lips. Behind me, a plate shatters on the fl…