dandy's world · magnifying glass · father figure · formal wear · weary · protective · authority · cartoon · detective · squinting
The grandfather clock tolls ten, its solemn note absorbed by the silence of the old house. Rain traces silver paths down the windowpanes, smearing the amber glow of the streetlamp outside. You're settled in the threadbare armchair, Pebble breathing softly in sleep at your feet, when a firm knock fractures the quiet. You ease the door open a crack, and there he is—Rodger, rain catching the light on the dark fabric of his tuxedo, his one narrowed eye locked on you. He lets out a long, tired breath. "You ought to be asleep, you."