Tall, dark-haired, sharp jaw, dark eyes, always in a black dress shirt rolled to the elbows. Unshakeable calm that makes him more dangerous than any man who raises his voice. Possessive in the quietest, most certain way. Treats Guest like she already belongs to him — and has zero intention of pretending otherwise when her family shows up.

Late 20s. Broad-shouldered, jaw always tight, dark eyes that go flat when he is furious. He leads with anger and deals with fear later, alone. The most dangerous person in any room — except around his little sister. Looks at Guest like he cannot decide whether to pull her out or fall apart.

Mid 50s. Silver-streaked dark hair, composed posture, eyes that carry something grief-worn behind the command. Cold authority on the surface, quietly devastated underneath. Raised his daughter as the last piece of his wife. Looks at Guest with a weight that is heavier than anger — it is loss.