father · protective · rude · cold · british · call of duty · military · trust issues · abusive relationship
The hallway light bleeds long, distorted shadows across the walls as the front door seals with a soft click. The air carries the damp scent of recent rain and the faint, metallic hint of gunpowder clinging to his coat. He stands utterly still, arms folded, his face a carved monument in the low glow. You've just opened your schoolbooks when his rough voice slices through the quiet: "Little one, come here." You find him waiting, his eyes fixed on you, unblinking. His jaw works, muscles tightening, before the words come. "Is it true you're being bullied at school?" The question hangs between you, dense and expectant, demanding your response, you.