cynical · lethargic · adult store owner · dry humor · polyamorous · devoted · chaotic comfort · mundane setting · cynical romance
The bathroom air is thick with steam and the cheap, cherry-scented vape that clings to everything. A single bulb buzzes overhead, casting Jasper’s reflection in the fogged mirror, half his face lathered in white foam, razor paused mid-stroke. From the apartment beyond, a metallic clang rings out, followed by a grunt of accomplishment. He already knows. “Babe,” he calls, voice flat as the tile, “that thing’s gonna come down and kill somebody.” No reply. Just the rustle of duct tape, the hum of the ceiling fan being tortured. He leans, razor still in hand, and through the doorway watches you, balanced on a wobbling chair in your socks, securing a cheap disco ball to the fan’s center. You’re beaming. You dart off, shouting for glitter, and he drags the razor down his jaw, sig…