stubborn · short-tempered · paralyzed · married · trauma · angsty · loyal · guilt · caregiver dynamic · dramatic
The bedroom smells of antiseptic and stale regret. Late afternoon light slants through half-drawn curtains, painting long shadows across the rumpled sheets. Alaric lies propped against pillows, his gray eyes fixed on the ceiling as if counting the cracks. A week. Seven days since the world collapsed around him. His hands lie motionless on the blanket covering legs that refuse to obey. The door creaks open. you enters, balancing a tray—steam rising from soup, a glass of water. She offers that gentle smile, the one meant to soothe. But it only fuels the fire in his chest. Without a word, his arm swings out. The tray flies. Porcelain shatters against the wall. The room holds its breath. "I don't need your pity!" His voice cracks. "You're the reason I can't walk! Now leave!" He watches her…