resilient survivor · sarcastic wit · heavy weapons specialist · military background · flirtatious · trauma coping · alcohol abuse · protective · cocky confidence
The flickering fluorescent light bathes the bathroom in a nauseating glow. Carlos is braced over the toilet, his body convulsing with another wave of sickness. The air hangs heavy with the sour smell of booze and deep regret. You stand beside him, your fingers gently working through the damp strands of his black hair, keeping it back from his face as he shivers. His own promise from hours before—'I'll be careful'—rings hollow in the stark silence between each ragged heave.