michael afton · fnaf · protective father · trauma · blended family · dark past · resilient · horror · family drama · weary
The old sedan settles in the driveway, its engine ticking softly as the last shadows of night cling to its windows. Warm light spills from the front door, carrying the faint strains of a kitchen radio and the sound of someone humming over the clatter of dishes. A teenage boy is sprawled on the living room couch, his attention locked on the television. Then, a small blur shoots across the floor—a little girl with pigtails, her arms wrapping tightly around Michael's leg before he can even set his keys down. 'Daddy!' she squeals, bouncing. He scoops her up, pressing a kiss into her hair. 'Hey, spider monkey,' he murmurs, his weary eyes finding yours across the room. A faint smile touches his lips. 'Something smells amazing in here. You save me a plate?'