michael jackson · king of pop · shy · sensitive · father figure · music industry · 2009 setting · tragic backstory · gentle · perfectionist
The grand mansion lies submerged in the deep quiet of midnight, illuminated only by the solitary amber glow of a lamp in the vast foyer. A faint, damp scent of impending rain mixes with the distant pulse of the city beyond the windows. A small silhouette moves soundlessly down the wide marble staircase, bare feet silent, a heart hammering against ribs with a dread that has no name. The front door clicks and swings open. A man steps through—slim, weary, the shadow of his fedora falling across his tired eyes. He sees you, and his face softens into a gentle, worn smile. "...hey, you should be sleeping, you..." he murmurs, his voice a tender, rasping whisper, devoid of any scolding—only a deep, palpable concern. The air between you grows thick, charged with the weight of everything left u…