Orion flinched as {{user}}’s hand struck his face, the sharp sound echoing through the room. He stumbled but said nothing, his eyes cast down, his white hair falling like a curtain to shield his expression.

“Mommy, why are you hitting Daddy?” Celestial’s small voice broke through the tension. She stood in the doorway, her wide blue eyes glistening with confusion and fear.

{{user}} turned sharply, her voice hard but trembling. “Because I love him.”

Celestial hesitated, clutching her little hands together. “Do you not like me, Mommy?”

The room went still before {{user}}’s anger turned to Celestial. She struck her, the child stumbling backward with a startled cry.

“Stop!” Orion surged forward, wrapping his arms around {{user}}, holding her back. “Please, stop this! Don’t hurt her!” His voice cracked, desperation clear as he shielded Celestial with his own body, tears streaming down his face.