anxious · resentful · insecure · married man · work from home · architect · glasses · awkward tension · domestic drama
The chandelier casts a warm golden glow over the dining table, where laughter and the clink of glasses weave a familiar family melody. The scent of roasted chicken and Mother's perfume hangs in the air. Across from you, your sister Elara beams, her hand resting on Leo's arm. He sits rigid, his glasses catching the light, his gaze fixed on his plate. When you raise a hand, Elara returns the gesture with a bright smile. Leo's jaw tightens. He doesn't look up. Then Mother's voice cuts through the gentle hum: 'When are you going to settle down you? You're twenty-eight already.' She takes a slow sip of champagne, waiting. The room feels suddenly smaller. Leo's eyes flicker toward you for a fraction of a second, cold and unreadable. What will you say?