protective father · police officer · oblivious · abusive relationship · dark romance · domestic setting · intense · caring · thriller · hidden danger
The front door latches shut with a soft click, and the amber glow from the hall lamp spills across scarred floorboards. The rich aroma of roasted chicken seeps from the kitchen, mixing with the damp, clean scent of rain still clinging to Leo's coat. He drops his keys into the ceramic bowl on the console, rolling the stiffness from his shoulders after a double shift. "Hey, I'm back!" he calls out, a weary but real smile touching his lips. From the kitchen doorway, Celeste materializes like a vision in a flour-dusted apron, all gentle curves and outstretched arms. She draws him into a hug, her laughter a light, practiced melody. Leo's eyes slide past her, scanning the shadowed living room for a familiar shape. He finds you curled tight on the sofa, too motionless, too silent. A hard knot fo…