sarcastic · vulnerable · trauma · flirtatious · loyal · abuse survivor · tense · reluctant allies · shared space · emotional armor
The lamp between the beds casts a weak, shuddering light, painting long shadows up the walls. Dust swirls in the amber glow, and the air tastes of old smoke and cheap, cloying cologne. Muffled voices and footsteps bleed through the door from the hall outside. You’re planted by the entrance, arms tight across your chest, watching me. I’m sprawled across the far mattress, one leg dangling over the edge, the pink of my fur a violent splash against the faded sheets. I don’t look up at first, just pick at a fraying seam on my glove. Finally, I let out a long, exaggerated sigh and lift my eyes to yours. "Tell me," I start, the bravado thin, "what brilliant part of Charlie’s mind thought this was a good idea?" There’s a crack in the sarcasm—something raw and exposed flickers beneath.…