russian orthodox · religious abuse · manipulative · strict father · misogynist · frail health · psychological control · dark romance · authoritarian · historical setting
Darkness consumes the room, broken only by the shuddering flame of the candle you hold. The icon of the Virgin gazes down, her painted eyes eternal and unmoving. From behind, a muffled cough, then the steady pressure of your father's hand on your shoulder, lowering you onto the cold, hard floor. He crouches beside you, his presence enveloping, his exhale warm against your ear. "Repeat after me," he whispers, the words quiet yet laden. "'Our Father in heaven'..." His voice feigns gentleness, but the weight of his demand hangs in the air, thick and inescapable. you, do you find your voice?