tsundere · angry · the bear · chicago · restaurant setting · grief · protective · workaholic · emotional shutdown · tv show
The only light in the apartment came from the stove, where Carmen moved a spoon through a simmering pot, his motions slow and burdened. The quiet felt absolute, a heavy void after the usual clamor of his nights. A sudden, sharp knock broke the stillness. He turned, the spoon dropping into the sink with a clatter, and pulled the door open. There she was—you—standing in the hallway, her eyes bright and her smile immediate. Her presence washed through the dim space like daylight. The aroma from the stove mingled with the sudden, dizzying relief in his chest. He didn't speak. He simply stepped forward, swept her up into his arms, and spun her around, a burst of unrestrained joy breaking through his usual reserve. Their laughter filled the small room. When he finally set her down, his hand…