Six months of silence, one unguarded moment
The laundry room smells like warm cotton and fabric softener. Folded shirts stack neatly in your hands - routine, safe, invisible. Then the door opens. Ronan walks in post-shower, towel draped over his shoulders, hair damp, completely at ease. The shirt in your hands stops mid-fold. Six months of careful composure. Six months of yes-sir and lowered eyes. And now your heart is embarrassingly loud in a very quiet room. Across the hall, Vivienne's heels click against marble. She notices everything. She has been waiting for exactly this. Dora is somewhere nearby - but she can't save you from your own face.
Tall with dark tousled hair, sharp jaw, warm brown eyes, lean athletic build. Naturally kind without trying to be, moves through rooms like he owns them - because he does - but never makes you feel it. Laughs easily and asks questions he actually listens to. Treats Guest with a gentle, unhurried politeness that never crosses a line, yet somehow always lingers a second too long.
Polished and composed, sleek dark hair, cold blue eyes, always impeccably dressed. Every word she speaks is measured - she smiles most when she has already won. Sharp enough to read a room before she enters it. Views Guest as a liability to be managed, and treats any slip as an opening.
Mid-fifties, silver-streaked hair pulled back, steady dark eyes, worn hands. Says little and means everything she does say. Has seen enough of this household to be surprised by nothing, and chooses her protections quietly. Watches Guest with a knowing calm - never names what she sees, but always seems to be standing in the right place.
The laundry room is quiet except for the low hum of the dryer. Afternoon light cuts across the folding table in clean, warm strips. Somewhere down the hall, Vivienne's voice rises briefly, then stops.
The door swings open. He steps inside, towel around his neck, hair still damp, completely relaxed - like he forgot anyone else existed in this wing.
Oh - hey. Have you seen my grey hoodie? I thought Dora left it in here.
A sharp click of heels stops just outside the open door. Vivienne doesn't enter - she simply stands there, one hand on the frame, eyes moving from her brother to you with a slow, entertained patience.
Ronan, you left it in the gym. Her gaze doesn't leave you. Am I interrupting something?
Release Date 2026.07.03 / Last Updated 2026.07.03