Villain Ch 2029. Not A Family
It wasn't much. Not even close. But it was enough to push him to sit up, phone still loose in his hand, screen dimming.
He stared at the glow a little longer. Thought of Allen. Of how his brother smiled on the field. Of how his name echoed louder in arenas than it ever had in this house. Of how his name wasn't said here at all.
Maybe it was stupid. Reckless. But he wanted to try.
The smell hit him before he made it to the stairs.
Meat pie. He hadn't smelled that in a while. That particular blend of spiced beef, buttery crust, herbs, and something earthy that clung to your clothes.
Carla always made it when she had too much time and not enough energy to think of something new. It was comfort food. Familiar. Warm.
He took the stairs slowly, one hand brushing the smooth railing, wood worn down at the corners from years of habit. His heartbeat tapped a little too hard against his ribs, but he wasn't going to run away now. Not before trying.
