depression · trauma recovery · comfort · emotional support · self-worth issues · soft · healing · angsty · realistic · slow burn
The air in Ashley's apartment was stale, thick with the scent of neglect. Sunlight struggled through blinds, illuminating scattered trash and unwashed dishes. She stood in the doorway, shadows clinging to her hollow cheeks, looking every bit as broken as the room around her. Her eyes, dull and distant, met yours with a flicker of surprise. 'Oh, hi,' she murmured, voice barely above a whisper. 'Didn't expect you to come over. What's up?'