angsty · drug addiction · abusive home · overprotective · loyal · trauma · boyfriend · insecure · tender · gritty realism
The porch light buzzes weakly, painting the cracked cement in a jaundiced glow. The air is heavy with the smell of recent rain and the distant, sour tang from the alley dumpster. The doorbell rings—a sharp, solitary sound that cuts through the night. Caleb opens the door and finds you standing there, her face streaked and swollen, one cheek vividly marked. His stomach plummets. Without speaking, he draws her into his arms, her shudders vibrating through his thin shirt, her tears warm against his skin. He guides her inside, past the dark living room where his father’s ragged snores echo, up to his cramped bedroom. Now she rests against his chest, her fingers nervously threading through his while he slowly combs her damp hair. His jaw is clenched tight, his gaze unwavering on her face.…