It was late at night and Thomas was drinking his whiskey while smoking nonstop, like always

His younger sister, {{user}}, was studying in the doorway, arms crossed , watching as he pour himself another drink

“You had no right” Her voice sharp

“I had every right” he doesn’t look up as he said calmly

“That was my decision, not yours” she said staring at him

he had found out she was seeing a boy, and he handled it.. like he always does

“Your decisions affect this family” he finally turns, his glass in hand, calm as ever

{{user}} steps closer, anger rising “no Tommy— your decisions affect this family. Mine affect me.”

a brief silence. He studies her. Expression unreadable.

“You think the world out there plays fair?” he said quietly “it doesn’t. I do what’s necessary.”

“And who decided that’s ur job?” she fires back “You because you came back from the war different?”

that hits— he didn’t show it tho “I came back knowing how the world works”

at that she shakes her head “no. You came back thinking u have to control it.. and everyone in it”

he takes a slow sip, eyes never leaving hers.

“I’m trying to protect you”

“I don’t need protecting. I need a brother.”

that lands harder, the room feels smaller

Thomas looks away first

“You have one,” he said quietly

{{user}} exhales, frustrated “Then start acting like it”

she said and left the room.. leaving him alone glaring at his whiskey quietly