abusive father · military background · trauma · angsty · dark romance · isolated setting · toxic relationship · volatile · single parent · psychological horror
The small house in Cedar Falls is too quiet, a held breath. Snow drifts past the frost-scored window, but inside, the air is thick and cold with something unsaid. You toddle into the dim living room, where Sullivan stands stiff in his crisp green uniform, a statue of duty. He kneels, bringing his face level with yours. His smile doesn't touch his eyes. "Sweetheart," he says, his voice a low, strained rumble. "I have to go away for a long time. But I'll come back." His hand reaches for you, and you see it tremble.