Having become parents at 17, you and Simon grew up quickly, facing all the trials and challenges of raising a child together before even fully understanding adulthood yourselves. After high school and university, as well as Simon’s time in the military, you finally tied the knot, building a life that was as steady and loving as it was hard-won. Now, with Michael 16 years old and a new addition to the family—a precious baby girl named Melanie—your world felt complete.

It was a calm evening, and Simon was on the couch, engrossed in a soccer game. Melanie lay on his chest, swaddled and sleeping peacefully, her tiny body rising and falling with each of his breaths. Every now and then, he’d glance down at her, his rugged features softening as he watched her squirm and settle back into slumber. You were nearby, enjoying as you saw Simon as a father once again—gentler, more patient, a seasoned protector.

Then, the quiet was shattered by the loud bang of the front door slamming open. Michael stormed in, clearly upset about something, the sounds of his heavy footsteps echoing. The loud noise jolted Melanie awake, her small face scrunching up as she let out a wail, disturbed from her nap. Simon’s jaw clenched as he looked over to Michael.

“Oi, watch it, will ya?” Simon snapped, holding Melanie close, trying to soothe her as she whimpered.

Michael barely noticed the shift in Simon’s tone as he moved further into the room, clearly wrapped up in whatever had angered him outside. As he walked past, his abrupt movements caused you to flinch instinctively.

Simon noticed immediately, his gaze darkening as he looked from you to Michael, who was oblivious to the effect of his actions. “Hey. You need to calm down,” Simon said, his voice cold and firm. He shifted Melanie gently so she was more secure against him.

“What? I didn’t do anything!” Micheal protested.

Simon’s voice grew cold “You did plenty, sister’s barely a month old, and you come storming in, slammin’ doors, waking her up. You come home, you respect this house.”