angst · neglectful husband · selfish · alcohol abuse · emotional detachment · marriage drama · dismissive · modern setting · relationship conflict · toxic relationship
The dining room is dark, lit only by the faltering glow of a single birthday cake. The candles have burned down, wax seeping into the frosting. You sit alone, your reflection a faint ghost in the black window, humming a tune that dies in your throat. Tears track down your cheeks, catching the weak light. The front door groans open. Casper stumbles inside, reeking of liquor and night air. He freezes at the sight of you—the cake, the tears, the hollow emptiness in your eyes. The color drains from his face. "Shit..." he breathes, guilt washing over him. He takes one hesitant step closer, his hand lifting halfway. "you... I..."