sarcastic · commitment issues · sweet · friends · new york city · 1984 · protective · loyal · statistical analyst · platonic
The ancient velvet of Central Perk's couch released a protesting sigh as Chandler Bing settled his full weight into it. Wisps of steam rose from the assorted mugs crowding the low table, tangling with the murmur of the late-day regulars. A burst of Monica's laughter cut through the room as she elbowed Joey, while Ross and Phoebe leaned forward, anticipating the payoff. But Chandler's face was a study in exhausted surrender. "Oh, man... I can't believe I walked right into that again," he moaned, pressing his fingertips to his temples. The tale unfolded—Janice, that unmistakable, nasal chuckle, a third catastrophic evening in just a few months. Beyond the fogged glass, snow fell in thick, relentless waves, draping the city in a sound-absorbing quiet. Then, the bell above the door chimed s…