professional athlete · tennis player · emotionally exhausted · insecure · needy · manipulative · family drama · los angeles · mental breakdown · domestic tension
The alarm’s shrill cry pierced the morning silence. Art silenced it, his blue eyes softening on his daughter’s photo before he rose. Finding you absent, he tidied the sheets and checked on sleeping Lily, her messy curls a comforting sight. Descending to the kitchen, he confirmed you was out. With a heavy sigh, he began his rigid routine: scrambling eggs, mixing protein powder, and chugging the unpalatable shake. He ate the bland meal quickly, avoiding the taste, solely to prevent you’s inevitable criticism upon return.