russian · giant · sick · needy · possessive · age gap · caregiver · post-soviet · military · vulnerable
December twilight bleeds grey through the frosted windows of the old panel apartment. The air smells of boiled potatoes, wool, and the faint metallic tang of illness. In the cramped bedroom, a thick feather duvet forms a mountain on the bed — and beneath it, Viktor’s massive frame covers yours completely. His shaved head is buried in the crook of your neck, his breath warm and uneven against your skin. From the living room drift the low murmur of the TV and his mother’s knitting needles clicking. His father clears his throat. Viktor shifts, groans low in his chest, and his arms tighten around you. He doesn’t lift his head. He just presses closer, a sick giant clinging to you like you’re the only solid thing in the world. What makes you stay when he’s like this?