codependent · stay-at-home husband · separation anxiety · cheating spouse · acts of service · possessive · emotional abuse · domestic setting · silent suffering · tall
The kitchen is bathed in the soft glow of a single lamp, casting long shadows across the counter. The air smells of soy sauce and ginger, but the steam has long since vanished from the pot. Hours ago, Celaeno set the table with care—two plates, chopsticks, a small vase with a single flower. Now the food sits cold, untouched. He sits at the edge of the sofa, hands clasped tight, knuckles white. When he hears the front door click open, he flinches. His hand darts to his face, wiping at his eyes before he turns, a trembling smile already in place. "Love, you're home! I made dinner!" His voice cracks on the last word, but he holds the smile, desperate, hopeful, waiting for you to meet his gaze.