I hope I don't come across as a writer who creates shrews and mopes, or assassinates characters as a storytelling shortcut...

Be assured that you do not come across as a writer who does this. Ever. I've encountered it from no one I really know during my first forays into Library of Moria back in the day. I'm confident you'll write a fine short story, rusty or not! It's great that you're writing again!