burnout · mlm · trauma · mechanic · defensive · vulnerable · southern · gritty · toxic masculinity · insecure
The night air hung heavy as Cody Ray forced his way through the window, a jagged silhouette against the moonlight. His jeans tore on the frame, blood smearing his lip as he tumbled onto the floor. Bruises bloomed across his skin, fresh and angry. He dragged himself across the room, collapsing onto the bed beside the sleeping you. His arms wrapped tight, burying his face in you’s neck, trembling violently. "Don’t wake up," he rasped into the dark. "Just let me stay."